Aging Adult Case Study
Write a 500 word essay addressing each of the following points/questions. Be sure to completely answer all the questions for each bullet point. Separate each section in your paper with a clear heading that allows your professor to know which bullet you are addressing in that section of your paper. Support your ideas with at least two (2) sources in your essay. Make sure to cite using the APA writing style for the essay. The cover page and reference page do not count towards the minimum word amount. Review the rubric criteria for this assignment.
A 68-year-old client lives alone and is independent with all ADLs, has no restrictions for mobility, and is competent, and oriented x4. The client is on a fixed income, but has enough to manage a modest lifestyle. The client has family and social supports but is very independent and is proud of her self-reliance. The client’s height is 5’ 6”, weight is 210 lb. / 95.25 kg.
Please answer the following:
- What is the client’s BMI?
- Identify what screening tools you would use to assess nutritional and exercise knowledge, and why?
- One Outcome/Intervention/Rationale:
- Identify one outcome/goal that is reasonable, measurable and realistic. Identify 1 nursing intervention for the outcome and give rationale for the intervention.
- Identify what weakness in the client’s life may be impacting the client’s activity and diet?
- What referrals would you make and why?
- (Use references for your responses, not just opinion.)
Assignment Expectations:
Length: 500 words in length
Structure: Include a title page and reference page in APA format. These do not count towards the minimum word count for this assignment. Your essay must include an introduction and a conclusion.
References: Use appropriate APA style in-text citations and references for all resources utilized to answer the questions. A minimum of two (2) scholarly sources are required for this assignment.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction:
As a medical professor, it is important to be able to apply the learned concepts to real-life situations. The presented case study of a 68-year-old client living alone requires a comprehensive approach to understand the client’s health status, identify any potential risks and make the appropriate recommendations for interventions.
1. What is the client’s BMI?
The client’s BMI is 33.9 kg/m2. This is calculated by dividing the weight (in kg) by the square of the height (in meters).
2. Identify what screening tools you would use to assess nutritional and exercise knowledge, and why?
To assess the client’s nutritional knowledge, I would use the Nutritional Assessment Questionnaire (NAQ). This screening tool measures the client’s eating habits, food choices, and nutrient intake to determine their overall nutritional status. Additionally, I would use the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q) to assess the client’s exercise knowledge. This questionnaire helps to determine the client’s readiness for physical activity and exercise by enquiring about their medical history, exercise habits, and any physical limitations.
3. One Outcome/Intervention/Rationale:
Outcome: The client will achieve a weight loss of 10 lbs. in three months.
Intervention: Create a personalized meal plan with a registered dietitian and a 30-minute daily walk.
Rationale: The client’s BMI indicates that they are obese and at a higher risk for developing diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and hypertension. A weight loss of 10 lbs. in three months is a reasonable goal and will reduce the risk of such diseases. A personalized meal plan will ensure that the client has a balanced diet while limiting their calorie intake. Walking is a low-impact form of physical activity that is feasible for the client and will increase their daily energy expenditure.
4. Identify what weakness in the client’s life may be impacting the client’s activity and diet?
The client’s fixed income may be impacting their activity and diet. They may not be able to afford healthy food options and may resort to less nutritious, processed foods due to their affordability. Additionally, they may not have the financial means to participate in physical activities such as gym memberships or exercise programs.
5. What referrals would you make and why?
Referral 1: Referral to a registered dietitian to create a personalized meal plan that meets the client’s dietary needs while limiting their calorie intake. This referral will ensure that the client has adequate nutrition while aiming for a healthy weight loss.
Referral 2: Referral to a social worker to assess the client’s financial resources and determine if any resources are available to them. The social worker can assist in connecting the client with financial aid programs or resources that can aid in the client’s access to healthy food options and physical activity programs.
Conclusion:
The presented case study highlights the importance of a comprehensive approach to addressing an aging adult’s health status. Addressing factors such as nutritional intake, exercise habits, and financial resources can positively impact an aging adult’s health status and overall quality of life. As medical professionals, it is crucial to identify these factors and offer appropriate referrals and interventions to improve the aging adult’s health outcomes.
