Back to Annual Meeting Page		American Public Health Association 133rd Annual Meeting & Exposition December 10-14, 2005 Philadelphia, PA

Abstract #106759

Sandra Nagel Beebe, RDH, PhD, Dental Hygiene Clinical Instructor, School of Allied Health, ASA, MC 6615, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Carbondale, IL 62901, 618 529-7591, sbeebe@siu.edu

The purpose of this study was to assess perceptions of seniors of their current health needs and to compare them with baby boomers' perceptions of future health needs as they begin entering the senior age bracket in 2011. The focus group participants were comprised of male and female seniors, 65 years of age and over (n=17) or baby boomers, 39 to 57 years of age (n=30). The sessions were conducted to collect data concerning perceptions of seniors' and baby boomers' preference for nomenclature and senior health care needs in retirement. The ten, approximately 60-minute sessions were audiotape recorded. The transcriptions were analyzed using content analysis. Key findings from the study identified the terms of choice for individuals 65 and over were “seniors/senior citizens.” Similar findings evolved from the seniors and baby boomers regarding their perceptions for health needs in retirement. Eight themes evolved with numerous sub-categories. The themes included: 1) prescription drug plans, 2) insurance issues, 3) government programs, 4) transportation issues, 5) accessibility of services or providers, 6) retirement planning, 7) attitudes, and 8) rating one's health. During the sessions, these themes consistently overlapped concern for health needs in retirement. The most important aspect from all sessions was the theme: attitude. Having a positive attitude about one's health is what will contribute to staying healthy. Participants recommended eating healthy, exercising, abstaining from smoking, and reducing stress as important considerations for preparing and living a healthy retirement.

Learning Objectives: Following this session, participants will be able to

• Recognize the term of choice selected by seniors and baby boomers for individuals 65 and over,
• Identify similarities and differences of perceived health needs by seniors and baby boomers in retirement, and
• Be able to identify retirement plans for baby boomers prior to retirement.

Keywords: Elderly, Health Needs

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

I wish to disclose that I have NO financial interests or other relationship with the manufactures of commercial products, suppliers of commercial services or commercial supporters.