Learning Objective #1: Recognize health care needs of the elderly living independently in the community

Learning Objective #2: Develop community resources to meet the needs of the elderly

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This project was to determine the real needs of the elderly in a rural community. Student nurses were assigned to make five home visits with an elderly client living in independent senior housing or public housing. Subjects were functioning independently in their activities of daily living. However, some restrictions in activity were based on limitations imposed by health problems. A plan of care was developed based on the subjects perceived needs. If the subjects were unable to identify needs, the student nurse suggested health promotion topics. After completion of the visits, each student nurse was asked to reflect on the visits and determine from a wholistic view what were the real needs. Data showed subjects listed health related topics as needs. Student nurses identified social needs as priorities. It was concluded that even though the elderly may be able to continue to live independently in the community; their social needs were not adequately met.