Social Issues and Their Implications

Social Issues and Their Implications
Issue	Implication
Marital or companion status	■ Pts who are living alone are less likely to access health care and are more likely to suffer from health problems, social isolation, and/or depression.
Living arrangements	■ Ease of access to shopping and services. ■ Available support from family and friends.
Financial status	■ Income level directly influences Pt’s ability to access health care, especially prescription drugs.
Education	■ Education level influences Pt’s ability to understand and carry out instructions.
Caregiver responsibilities	■ Pts with caregiving roles may be reluctant to report their own symptoms.
Caregiver availability	■ Availability (or unavailability) of caregivers influences Pt’s access to health care.
ADLs	■ Pts of advanced age have more difficult time completing common, everyday ADLs.
Hobbies and interests	■ Lack of hobbies or interests may lead to social isolation and depression.