A nurse is assessing an older adult's nutritional status. The nurse understands that which of the following is the most important indicator for a potential nutritional deficit?

A. Participants in PACE programs must be able to perform their own ADLs independently.

Explanation: This statement is generally not true. PACE programs are designed to provide comprehensive and coordinated care for individuals who are frail and meet the criteria for nursing home admission. The emphasis is on maintaining participants in their homes and communities. Participants in PACE programs often have limitations in Activities of Daily Living (ADLs), and the program is designed to support them in these activities.

B. Participants in PACE programs must have been residents in a nursing home prior to enrollment in the PACE program.

Explanation: This statement is generally not true. PACE programs aim to keep individuals out of nursing homes by providing comprehensive healthcare services in a community setting. Participants in PACE programs are often those at risk of nursing home placement due to their health and functional status.

C. Participants in PACE programs must be eligible for either Medicare or Medicaid.

Explanation: This statement is generally true. PACE programs are funded through Medicare and Medicaid. Participants must be eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid to enroll in a PACE program. Medicaid eligibility may vary by state.

D. PACE programs only provide service to individuals who are age 55 and over.

Explanation: This statement is generally true. PACE programs typically serve individuals who are 55 years of age or older. However, the specific age eligibility may vary by state.

E. PACE programs provide services to individuals who meet the criteria for nursing home admission.

Explanation: This statement is generally true. PACE programs are designed for individuals who are at risk of nursing home placement due to their health and functional status. Participants must meet the criteria for nursing home admission to be eligible for PACE services.

A. TRICARE for Life.
Explanation: TRICARE for Life is a health insurance program for military retirees and their dependents. While it may be relevant for veterans, it is not typically available to widowed spouses, especially if they did not serve in the military themselves.

B. Medicaid.
Explanation: Medicaid is a state and federally funded program that provides health coverage to individuals with limited income and resources. In many states, Medicaid can assist in covering the costs not covered by Medicare, including premiums, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket expenses. Eligibility criteria for Medicaid vary by state, but it often considers income, assets, and medical needs.

C. Medicare Part D.
Explanation: Medicare Part D is the prescription drug coverage program for Medicare beneficiaries. It is not a substitute for supplemental insurance to cover other healthcare costs, and it focuses specifically on prescription medications.

D. Supplemental Security Income (SSI).
Explanation: SSI is a needs-based program that provides financial assistance to elderly or disabled individuals with limited income and resources. While it can assist with income support, it is not a health insurance program and may not directly cover healthcare costs. Medicaid is often coupled with SSI to provide comprehensive coverage.