Jean is an 88-year-old widow with four grown sons and numerous grandchildren. She was living alone, caring for her own home for the past 35 years since her husband died. At home, Jean could make meals, take care of her hygiene, pay her bills, and use the bathroom on her own. She had enjoyed being at home and continued to take care of herself and her home. One day she developed mild abdominal pain. She thought it was related to something she ate, but it persisted, so she decided to go to her family doctor. She was not concerned about the cost of seeing a doctor as she had excellent health care coverage under her deceased husband’s insurance. Jean was taken to the clinic and underwent lab tests and a CT scan, for which her doctor concluded she had ovarian cancer. Since the treatment would not provide a cure, she opted to let cancer take its course. The clinic nurse told Jean to call if she needed anything. Jean was a strong independent woman, as she had to be after becoming a widow at such a young age. But now, she was facing an unexpected diagnosis of cancer. Question Write out the words in the case study that stands out for you as important. What is your rationale? What aspects of health are included in part I? How are these aspects related to patient-centered care? What activities of daily living are a part of Jean’s functional ability in the home setting?
