What term refers to anything necessary to sustain life?

The term that refers to anything necessary to sustain life is "needs." Needs encompass the essential elements required for survival and well-being, such as food, water, shelter, and medical care. Understanding this distinction is crucial in fields such as Family and Consumer Sciences, as it helps individuals and families prioritize essential resources and make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle.

In contrast, the other terms relate to different concepts. "Wants" denote items or services that are not essential for survival but contribute to comfort or enjoyment. "Desires" are similar to wants but often imply a stronger emotional component. "Resources" refer to the means, such as time, money, and materials, that can be used to fulfill both needs and wants, but they do not specifically identify necessities for life. Recognizing these differences helps clarify how various factors affect personal and family well-being.