Which patient is presenting with symptoms that suggest a possible severe case of diabetes complications?

The correct choice highlights a patient demographic that is more commonly associated with severe complications of diabetes, particularly in older adults. In this case, the 78-year-old retired police officer is more likely to have had a longer duration of diabetes, which increases the risk for complications such as cardiovascular disease, neuropathy, kidney issues, and vision problems. Older patients may also experience more severe manifestations of these complications due to the cumulative effects of diabetes over the years.

In contrast, the younger individuals in the options, including the 32-year-old construction worker and the 17-year-old with wrist lacerations, are less likely to present with severe complications of diabetes at their ages, especially if they are newly diagnosed or have better control over their condition. The infant, being just three months old, would typically present with different health concerns rather than complications due to diabetes, which is more common in older populations.

Therefore, the age and likely health history of the 78-year-old individual align with the profile of someone who might present with serious diabetes-related complications, making this choice the most indicative of such a scenario.