The 65+ years age group is the fastest growing in the U.S. They also have the highest rate of suicide and are the most likely to die of chronic diseases. On the other hand, it is possible to increase the odds of living longer, both in terms of quality and quantity, by reducing health risks and adapting a healthier life style that include physical and social activities, having a purpose in life, and other behaviors that gerontologists and health promoters are familiar with. This presentation links health aspects of gerontology, health promotion, and service learning. One assumption is that students would benefit from not only knowing the subject matter of gerontology and health promotion but in its application in working collaboratively with older adults, and faculty. Secondly, younger students, with luck, will mature and reach old age. They may be responsible for the care of older parents, and others. Certainly they, themselves, will wish to remain healthy and vital as long as possible. By means of a video the Adult Health & Development Program (AHDP), and its spread to 30 other universities and colleges (called the National Network for Intergenerational Health - NNIH) will be described. It will be followed by a discussion of the implications of the AHDP/NNIH for higher education, gerontology, health promotion, and reducing violence.
Learning Objectives: 1. Describe the Adult Health & Development Program (AHDP)and the National Network for Intergenerational Health's (NNIH) conceptual framework. 2. Analyze the effect of the AHDP on students in terms of perception of older adults, advocacy for intergenerational issues, and professional choice. 3. Describe how the ADHP/NNIH affects health and well-being of older adults, and reduces negative labels and stereotypes
Keywords: Health Activism, Service Learning
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.