The response to stress for older adults may be manifested differently

The response to stress for older adults may be manifested differently than in younger adults. The nurse recognizes that. For the older adult client, the nurse is aware that:

1. Losses are more stress-provoking
2. Anxiety disorders are most prevalent
3. Psychosocial factors are the greatest threats
4. Timing of stress-inducing events is not significant

ANSWER

ANS: 2
Anxiety disorders are the most prevalent disorders in later life and are continuations of life-long illnesses. Losses in later life may be less stress provoking than generally assumed, partly because certain life transitions are anticipated and people prepare by coping in advance. The effect of psychosocial factors on health status is not altered by age. The timing of stress-inducing events can significantly influence older adults’ ability to cope. The fact that older adults may have sev-eral stressful events (e.g., loss of a spouse and new medical diagnosis) occur with a short period of time can result in detrimental effects on coping.