When addressing nutrition and physical activity with a patient who has limited resources, which approach is recommended?

• A. Use goal setting that fits budget
• B. Ignore social support
• C. Avoid community resources
• D. Demand high-cost options

Answer: (A)

When resources are limited, the best approach is to set nutrition and activity goals that fit what the patient can realistically afford and access. Feasible, budget-conscious goals support steady progress and build confidence, making it more likely the plan is followed over time.

For nutrition, focus on affordable, nutrient-dense choices and practical meal planning. Suggest staples that are inexpensive yet nutritious—beans, eggs, canned fish, oats or rice, seasonal produce, and bulk grains—and emphasize cooking at home, planning meals, and using a shopping list to minimize waste. For physical activity, propose free or low-cost options that fit into daily life—walking, taking stairs, bodyweight exercises, or short, consistent activity sessions—so the patient can start safely and gradually increase.

It's also important to recognize and leverage social support and community resources when available, but the core recommendation is to anchor goals in budget-friendly, achievable actions. High-cost options or actions that ignore support networks or resources tend to be nonviable for someone with limited means and can undermine motivation.