The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #61874

Thomas Prohaska, PhD, Center for Research on Health and Aging, University of Illinois at Chicago, 850 W. Jackson (M/C 275), Suite 400, Chicago, IL 60607, 312-413-9830, prohaska@uic.edu

Public health and aging has witnessed exponential growth in documenting the efficacy and effectiveness of program interventions with older populations. However, dissemination and maintenance of scientifically tested research findings to community practice in senior services is often slow, fragmented and short lived. A considerable gap exists between dissemination of innovative programs and interventions for seniors and adoption and maintenance of these programs by aging service agencies. This presentation focuses on theoretical models and perspectives useful in facilitating adoption and maintenance of program innovations in real world settings. Specifically the RE-AIM framework (Glasgow et. al., 1999) and Rogers' Theory of Diffusion of Innovation (1995) are reviewed and discussed in terms of useful strategies to facilitate adoption and maintenance of innovative programs and services for older adults. Issues are also raised pertaining to agency adoption of selected program components, the need for program flexability to accomodate agency needs, the importance of researcher- community partnerships, and the need for dissemination evaluation. The theories and issues discussed are provided as a framework to disseminate and maintain successful evidence-based interventions into community services for seniors.

Learning Objectives:

As a result of attending this session, participants will be able to:
• List and apply three theoretical models useful for disseminating successful research innovations to real world settings.
• Identify major factors associated with successful translation and dissemination of research innovations in aging services to community practice. Describe strategies derived from theoretical models usefulfor sustaining services for seniors in practice settings.

Keywords: Health Promotion, Aging

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
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.