A patient's hygiene schedule of bathing and brushing teeth is largely influenced by family customs. For which age group is the nurse most likely providing care?

A) Adolescent
B) Preschooler
C) Older adult
D) Adult

Family customs play a major role during childhood in determining hygiene practices such as the frequency of bathing, the time of day bathing is performed, and even whether certain hygiene practices such as brushing of the teeth or flossing are performed. As children enter adolescence, peer groups and media often influence hygiene practices. During the adult years involvement with friends and work groups shape the expectations that people have about personal appearance. Some older adults' hygiene practices change because of changes in living conditions and available resources.