A nurse is assisting with teaching a class about alternative medicine. The nurse should include that which of the following practices is based on a balance of the body, mind, and spirit to prevent disease?

A. This plan incorporates both a complementary therapy (massage therapy) and a conventional treatment (corticosteroid medications). This combination aligns well with integrative health principles, as it aims to manage pain and improve well-being through both physical and pharmacological means.
B. This option focuses solely on conventional medical assessments. While monitoring these parameters is essential for managing rheumatoid arthritis, it does not incorporate any complementary or integrative health strategies. It is more about evaluating the disease process than addressing holistic care.
C. This option combines conventional medication with occupational therapy, which can be considered a supportive, rehabilitative approach. However, it does not include complementary therapies, which are often a key component of integrative health practices.
D. This plan emphasizes surgical and physical therapy interventions, which are conventional treatments. While physical therapy can be beneficial, this option does not include complementary therapies, making it less aligned with integrative health principles.

A. As individuals age, balance often decreases due to factors such as changes in vision, muscle strength, and proprioception. Older adults may be more prone to falls because of diminished balance and coordination.
B. While bones may become denser in some cases due to increased calcification, this is not the typical expectation. Generally, older adults experience a decrease in bone density, which can lead to conditions such as osteoporosis. Aging bones may lose calcium and other minerals, making them more fragile.
C. Age-related changes in joints, such as decreased synovial fluid production, cartilage degeneration, and changes in ligaments, can lead to increased stiffness and discomfort in joints. Conditions like osteoarthritis can also contribute to this stiffness.
D. With aging, there is usually a decrease in muscle mass and strength, known as sarcopenia. Older adults may experience a gradual loss of muscle tissue, leading to decreased overall muscle mass and strength.