What is recommended for maintaining life and health according to self-care theory?

Self-care theory emphasizes the importance of individuals taking an active role in their own health and well-being. This involves engaging in self-initiated health activities, which are actions taken by individuals to maintain their health and prevent illness. Such activities may include regular exercise, healthy eating, stress management, and preventive measures like vaccinations or health screenings when individuals choose to incorporate these into their lifestyle.

This approach acknowledges that people are capable of recognizing their health needs and taking steps to address them independently. By promoting self-initiated health activities, individuals become more empowered in their health management, which aligns with the principles of self-care that underscore personal responsibility, autonomy, and informed decision-making in relation to one’s health.

The other options, while they may contribute to health management in some way, do not capture the essence of self-care theory as completely as self-initiated activities do. Regular health screenings, government regulations, and medical treatment are essential components of a comprehensive healthcare system, but they rely on external support rather than the individual agency that self-care theory champions.