What age category does the patient in the change-of-shift report fall under?

In this scenario, the patient is identified as being 68 years old. This places the patient within the older adult category, which is typically characterized by individuals aged 65 and older. Understanding age categories is important in healthcare as different age groups often have distinct health needs, care approaches, and assessment tools.

For younger patients, such as children and adolescents, developmental considerations are paramount. In contrast, young adults, generally considered to be between 18 and 35 years old, have different health risks and lifestyle factors compared to older adults. The 68-year-old patient would more likely experience issues related to chronic illnesses, cognitive changes, and a need for support systems indicative of older adults. Thus, referring to the age as 68 years old provides clear identification of the patient's category as a senior, highlighting the unique considerations that accompany care for this demographic.