Question

A nurse is discussing an older adult's recent diagnosis of rheumatoid arthritis with a colleague. Which of the nurse's statements reflects an accurate view of the relationship between aging and wellness?

a. It's important that the individual knows this is an expected part of growing older
b. We need to teach the older adult how he can keep living a fruitful life in spite of his diagnosis
c. We need to make sure our teaching is not too detailed for someone of his age
d. We need to ensure his expectations of continuing to live alone are realistic

Answer 1

The accurate view is one that focuses on living a fruitful life with the disease, emphasizing personalized management and a comprehensive approach to healthy aging. It considers physical, social, and psychological aspects, and supports maintaining quality of life.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement by the nurse that reflects an accurate view of the relationship between aging and wellness is: 'We need to teach the older adult how he can keep living a fruitful life in spite of his diagnosis.' This acknowledges the challenges associated with diseases like rheumatoid arthritis in older adults while promoting the idea of managing the condition to maintain as much independence and quality of life as possible. It is crucial to understand that while aging may increase the risk of developing certain conditions, it is not an inevitable outcome for everyone, and wellness can still be pursued at any age.

Healthy aging involves more than just physical health; it includes social connectedness and finding meaning in life. This comprehensive approach helps to provide a more accurate depiction of the aging process, dispelling myths such as the inevitability of certain diseases like osteoarthritis and cognitive decline. The pursuit of age-related wellness should be tailored to the individual's unique circumstances, enabling them to live a fulfilling life regardless of age-related changes.