According to Healthy People 2020, older adults have been identified as a priority, addressing goals to improve dental health. Identify the correct dental health goals for older adults. (Select all that apply.)

Choice A reason: Avoiding sick people and washing hands is the most important client teaching for the nurse to include for the prevention of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD, as it can reduce the exposure to respiratory infections, which are the main cause of COPD exacerbations. The nurse would advise the older adult to stay away from people who have colds, flu, or other contagious illnesses, and to wash their hands frequently with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitizer.

Choice B reason: Using low-flow oxygen for dyspnea is a possible client teaching for the nurse to include for the prevention of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD, but it is not the most important one, as it depends on the severity of the condition and the oxygen saturation level of the patient. The nurse would advise the older adult to use oxygen therapy as prescribed by their doctor, and to monitor their oxygen level with a pulse oximeter.

Choice C reason: Easing breathing by sitting upright is a helpful client teaching for the nurse to include for the prevention of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD, but it is not the most important one, as it is a supportive measure that does not address the underlying cause of the exacerbation. The nurse would advise the older adult to sit upright or lean forward when they have difficulty breathing, and to use pursed-lip breathing or abdominal breathing techniques.

Choice D reason: Eating nutrient- and calorie-dense foods is a beneficial client teaching for the nurse to include for the prevention of hospitalizations for exacerbations of COPD, but it is not the most important one, as it is a long-term strategy that does not prevent the immediate risk of exacerbation. The nurse would advise the older adult to eat a balanced diet that provides enough protein, carbohydrates, fats, vitamins, and minerals, and to avoid foods that can cause gas, bloating, or reflux.

Choice A reason: Skin becomes more vulnerable to sun damage is true because as the skin ages, it loses its elasticity and ability to repair itself from the harmful effects of ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Sun damage can cause wrinkles, age spots, and skin cancer. The nurse would advise the older adult person to protect their skin from the sun by wearing sunscreen, hats, and clothing that covers the skin.

Choice B reason: Sweat gland activity increases is false because as the skin ages, it produces less sweat and oil, which can make the skin dry and prone to itching. The nurse would advise the older adult person to moisturize their skin regularly and avoid hot showers or baths that can dry out the skin.

Choice C reason: Skin becomes darker in unexposed areas is false because as the skin ages, it produces less melanin, the pigment that gives the skin its color. This can make the skin lighter and more sensitive to sunburn. The nurse would advise the older adult person to check their skin for any changes in color, shape, or size of moles or spots that could indicate skin cancer.

Choice D reason: Generous amounts of soap should be used for cleansing is false because as the skin ages, it becomes thinner and more fragile, and can be irritated by harsh chemicals or fragrances. The nurse would advise the older adult person to use mild, unscented soap and water for cleansing, and to pat the skin dry gently.