Two related and important trends in the elderly population are: ...

[bio_gurl]

Two related and important trends in the elderly population are:
 
  A) The growing gap in life expectancy between males and females and the number of women living alone
  B) The increase in life expectancy of white and black people.
  C) The continued burden of acute disease and the low levels of education among the elderly
  D) The increased burden of chronic illness and the shifting causes of death with advancing age

Question 2

An older patient has been treated for three incidents of respiratory infection within 6 months. The patient complains of shortness of breath when walking outside in the cold weather. What should the nurse recommend to this patient?
 
  A) Drink plenty of water
  B) Avoid going outdoors
  C) Call the physician for antibiotics
  D) Increase the use of bronchial medications

[amcvicar]

Answer to Question 1

D
Feedback:
The role of chronic illness in death rates is both significant and represents a shift from the past. The gap in life expectancy between men and women is narrowing. The life expectancy of black people has been recently declining. The generation now entering the senior years is better educated than generations past.

Answer to Question 2

A
Feedback:
It is important that the elderly, especially with frequent respiratory infections, actively work at removing bronchial secretions to minimize the effects of respiratory complications. Drinking fluids is an important activity for this patient. It would be inappropriate to encourage the patient to increase medication dosages or stay indoors. Antibiotics may or may not be necessary.