Oregon Certified Nursing Assistant State Practice Exam

Which of the following factors might influence food preferences?

1. Education

2. Residents' age

3. Food texture

4. Religion

The correct answer is: Religion

Religion is an influential factor when it comes to food preferences because it often dictates dietary laws and restrictions that followers adhere to. Different religions have specific guidelines about what foods are permissible or forbidden, which can greatly affect an individual's choices. For example, individuals following a kosher diet, as outlined in Jewish law, will avoid certain foods like pork and shellfish, while many Hindus may abstain from beef. Health, ethical beliefs, and traditions tied to religion can also play significant roles in shaping food preferences. Understanding these influences is crucial for providing culturally competent care and meals in a healthcare setting, particularly in a diverse environment like a nursing facility. The other choices present significant factors, but their influence on food preferences is often less overarching or individualized compared to religious beliefs. For example, while education can affect knowledge about nutrition, it may not directly dictate what someone prefers to eat. Age and food texture can influence individual choices, but do not generally encompass the broader ethical or spiritual considerations that religion encompasses.