When documenting observations in an older adult recovering from a stroke who displays abrupt mood changes, what is the most accurate term to use?

The term "emotional lability" accurately describes the phenomenon of abrupt mood changes observed in individuals, particularly in the context of neurological events such as a stroke. Emotional lability reflects a lack of control over emotional expressions, which can manifest as sudden shifts in mood or affect that do not necessarily correlate with external circumstances or events. This is common in stroke survivors, where brain injury may disrupt emotional regulation.

In contrast, terms like "emotional stability" and "emotional resilience" imply a consistent ability to maintain or recover emotional balance in the face of challenges, which does not fit the observed behavior in this context. "Emotional withdrawal" suggests a tendency to isolate emotionally or physically from social interactions, which also does not correspond with the observation of abrupt mood changes. Therefore, "emotional lability" is the most precise term to characterize this type of emotional fluctuation in an older adult recovering from a stroke.