Mrs. Ford, a 78-year-old retired teacher, presents with increasing restlessness, muscle tension, insomnia, and persistent worry following her husband's recent cancer diagnosis. She lives alone and reports that her thoughts "won't shut off at night." Her history includes hypertension, osteoporosis, and mild cognitive impairment (MCI). Medications include lisinopril and calcium/vitamin D. A primary care provider diagnoses late-onset generalized anxiety disorder (GAD). As the nurse collaborates on her care plan, which intervention is most appropriate based on safety, effectiveness, and age-related considerations?

A. Suggest increased caffeine intake to reduce daytime fatigue and restore her sleep-wake cycle: Caffeine worsens anxiety, restlessness, and insomnia in older adults, which would aggravate her symptoms. B. Refer to a cognitive behavioral therapist and encourage relaxation training adapted to her cognitive level: Evidence-based, safe, and effective for late-onset GAD; CBT and relaxation therapy can be tailored to mild cognitive impairment. C. Recommend low-dose lorazepam PRN to manage acute anxiety and promote sleep during this time of crisis: Benzodiazepines increase fall risk, confusion, and dependence in older adults; not the safest first-line option. D. Provide education on SSRIs as a possible treatment option and collaborate with the provider for medication evaluation: SSRIs are appropriate long-term pharmacologic treatment, but initial focus should be on safe nonpharmacologic interventions.