HMS, HIC EQ-Bank 006 MC

A researcher is studying how health patterns change throughout life. The table shows health measurements for one participant across three time periods.

Which conclusion BEST illustrates the concept of the health continuum and the dynamic nature of health?

Once overall health declines from excellent to fair, it cannot return to a better state.
Physical activity is the dominant determinant of overall health status regardless of other dimensions.
Mental wellbeing correlates directly with social connections, showing these dimensions are interdependent.
The interactions between dimensions of health create different overall health outcomes at different life stages.

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D is correct as it recognises how the interactions between different dimensions of health (physical, social, mental) create different overall health outcomes at different life stages.

Other options:

A is incorrect as it contradicts the dynamic nature of health by suggesting health cannot improve once it declines, whereas the data shows movement from “Fair” to “Good” between ages 35 and 45.
B is incorrect as it overemphasises physical activity; the data shows that at age 45, overall health was “Good” despite “Low” physical activity, suggesting other dimensions compensated.
C is incorrect as it oversimplifies the relationship between mental wellbeing and social connections; at age 45, both are positive, but at age 35, they differ (limited social connections but stressed mental wellbeing).