Which term best describes the attitude exhibited by an 85-year-old client who believes older people are burdens to their families?

The term that best describes the attitude of an 85-year-old client who sees older people as burdens to their families is ageism. Ageism refers to stereotypes and prejudiced attitudes toward individuals or groups based on their age, particularly the discriminatory beliefs about older adults.

In this scenario, the client's belief reflects a negative stereotype about aging, suggesting that older individuals lack value or are only a liability. These kinds of attitudes contribute to societal stigma against older adults and can impact how they view themselves and their place in society as they age. Recognizing ageism is crucial in nursing care, as it influences the quality of care and the interactions healthcare providers have with older clients.

The concepts of discrimination, empathy, and aging don't accurately capture the specific negative belief about older adults as burdens. Discrimination typically refers to the actions taken against individuals based on their group identity; empathy involves understanding and sharing the feelings of others; and aging is the biological and social process of becoming older. Ageism comprehensively encompasses the prejudicial attitudes the client demonstrates.