Vulnerability is an idea which means susceptibility and its relationship to health care delivery system. This paper will indentify a vulnerable population; describe the population demographics based on research of professional literature and websites including locals, state or national levels. It will also describe a personal awareness of the population, attitudes, biases, and serotypes; it will state the effect of research on personal attitudes and how it might affect health care delivery. Finally, it will use self reflection to evaluate our perception before after learning about the population.
Background of Focal Point
Gil Martin in the ‘neighborhood’ is a fifty two year old Hispanic male married to Helen. They have been married for eighteen years. He had a son Mark from the previous marriage and a step daughter Tracy. Gil’s father recently passed away and he has been helping his elderly mother manage her home. While at the mother’s house, Gil suggested to his mother (Mary) to consider moving in with them. Mary accepted the suggestion with happiness but to Gil’s surprise. When Gil got home, he told his wife and was met with a negative reaction.
Vulnerable Population
The elderly in America are considered to be a vulnerable population in regards to health, wellness and provision of healthcare. While this consideration may sometimes be based on assumptions related to age and wellness, there are increased risk factors that do place a majority of this population at a higher risk for illness and injury. Most of the risk factors that come along with age and affect one’s health are decreased mobility, increased incidence of chronic disease, possible social isolation, financial decline related to voluntary or involuntary retirement, nutritional needs, and a host of age related changes and illnesses that affect this group. They
