Final answer:
The nurse is likely concerned due to symptoms of dementia that affect daily activities, such as eating and feeding. Dementia, including Alzheimer's disease, impacts memory and cognitive abilities, necessitating cognitive rehabilitation and close management of daily routines. Psychosocial support is also crucial for the patients' quality of life.
Step-by-step explanation:
The nurse's concern could be directly related to the issues tied to dementia seen in the patient, such as difficulty in managing daily tasks, which can encompass eating and swallowing. The symptoms and cognitive decline highlighted in the information provided, which include memory loss, confusion, poor judgment, personality changes, and language difficulties (aphasia), are characteristic of dementia. Alzheimer's disease, a type of dementia studied by Solomon Carter Fuller, not only has a genetic basis but also is associated with the formation of plaques and severe forgetfulness. Cognitive rehabilitation and psychosocial support are essential aspects of dementia management and can significantly influence the quality of life of individuals with dementia.
Importance of Observing and Managing Daily Activities
Eating and feeding are routine daily activities that might be challenging for dementia patients. Problems with communication and memory can lead to situations where a patient like Rosa may forget how to chew or improperly use utensils. Proper nursing management and observation, as in the case provided, play a critical role in ensuring patient safety and adequate nutrition.
Cognitive Rehabilitation and Support
Research such as that by Garcia-Betances et al. suggests that interventions like cognitive rehabilitation, including the use of virtual reality technology, can help mitigate the effects of mild cognitive impairment. Meanwhile, psychosocial factors play a significant role in aging, and meaning in life, activities, and social connectedness are important for the elderly, especially those living with dementia, as highlighted by George Vaillant's longitudinal study on aging.