39. In preparing a health education presentation for older adults, a nurse should keep in mind that:
. Older adults generally prefer group teaching.
. Older adult learners need more than a single teaching session.
. Presentations should use more written materials than lectures.
Test-Taking Tip
Eliminate the options that imply a "one size fits all" approach to teaching older adults.
Content Area: Geriatrics; Integrated Process: Teaching and Learning; Cognitive Level: Application; Client Need/Subneed: Health Promotion and Maintenance/Principles of Teaching and Learning
.
Answer 1 is incorrect because not everyone relates to or learns well in groups. If group teaching is used, follow-up is essential to ensure that an individual client has attained sufficient knowledge. Answer 2 is correct because a single teaching strategy is rarely adequate. Learning takes time. Follow-up sessions are important to building confidence in the client and to assess the effectiveness of prior teaching. Answer 3 is incorrect because the teaching techniques vary with older adults. The nurse needs to assess each client. A combination of lecture, visual aids, and discussion is commonly used. Answer 4 is incorrect because there is no substitute for human interaction. Teaching aids are invaluable, but there must be discussion following use of such aids.