An Evidence-Based Approach for the Development of a Health and Wellness Program Within a Community Center for Older Adults

Sypniewski, Rebecca Jawahir

Saturday, 29 October 2011

Rebecca Jawahir Sypniewski, MSN, FNP-BC
GVSU Family Health Center, Grand Valley State University, Grand Rapids, MI

Learning Objective 1: 1. State three needs perceived by an aging population related to sustaining optimal health.

Learning Objective 2: 2. Explain an evidence-based approach for developing a model designed to provide health services and wellness care to older adults in a senior community center.

The number of older adults in the United States will double between 2005 and 2030 as the 78 million baby boomers begin turning 65 in 2011, and as life-expectancy continues to increase. Statistics indicate that as individuals age, they desire to “age in place” and remain in their homes and communities. The literature suggests an increased interest in health promotion and disease prevention for the older adult. Healthy People 2020 focuses on increasing participation in health promotional programs and screening services in community-based settings. The intent of these goals is not to lengthen life, but to improve functional independence of older adults. In addition, health and wellness programs improve compliance and chronic disease outcomes in older adults.

The purpose of this project is to develop a strategic plan for a nurse-led model to provide health services and wellness care to older adults participating in a senior community center located in the Midwest. A comprehensive review of the literature has been completed to identify successful models of care and wellness programs for older adults. A Needs Assessment related to sustaining optimal health, developed for the project, will be completed by members. The results of the literature review and needs assessment will inform the selection of a model designed to provide health services and wellness care to older adults. Subsequently, a full project plan will be developed to include; 1) assessment of resources needed for implementation (human, physical, financial); 2) timeline for phased implementation; 3) an evaluation model based on desired outcome measures, with timeline; 4) proposed funding models; and 5) a nurse-led demonstration project designed to manage chronic disease and promote wellness initiatives, incorporating students from a local university nursing program.

See more of: Poster Session I - Rising Stars of Scholarship Invited Student Posters
See more of: Invited Posters