Cultural Considerations in Gerontological Practice Flashcards

An older Japanese American client with hypertension eats miso soup and pickled vegetables daily. What is the main nutrition concern?

Answer: High sodium

Miso, soy sauce, and pickled foods are major sodium sources in traditional Japanese diets.

An older Native American client says traditional foods carry spiritual meaning. Which nutrition approach is best?

Answer: Promote traditional foods such as wild game, corn, beans, squash, and wild rice while limiting commodity foods high in fat and refined starch

Bringing back traditional food systems supports health and cultural identity in Indigenous communities.

An older Greek Orthodox client tells you she observes Lent. Which dietary change is most likely?

Answer: Avoiding meat, dairy, and often eggs and fish, with a more plant-based diet

Greek Orthodox fasting periods restrict animal products, which can affect protein, calcium, and B12 intake in frail elders.

Which is an example of an implicit bias that could affect nutrition care for older adults?

Answer: Assuming an older client from a low-income background will not follow recommendations

Unconscious assumptions about adherence based on background can lower the quality of care and education given.

An older Ethiopian Orthodox client fasts on Wednesdays and Fridays. What should the RDN do?

Answer: Plan plant-based meals with adequate protein, such as lentils and chickpeas, for fasting days

Ethiopian Orthodox fasting avoids animal products, so legume-based dishes such as misir wot keep nutrition adequate.

Which communication practice is most appropriate when counseling many older Asian clients?

Answer: Showing respect through formal address and checking understanding, since nodding may not mean agreement

In many Asian cultures a nod or 'yes' can signal politeness rather than understanding, so teach-back is important.

Which federal standards guide health care organizations in providing culturally and linguistically appropriate services?

Answer: The National CLAS Standards

The HHS Office of Minority Health's National CLAS Standards set the framework for equitable, culturally responsive care.