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APHA Scientific Session and Event Listing

Elaine T. Jurkowski, MSW, PhD, School of Social Work, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, M/C 4329 , 875 S. Normal Ave., Carbondale, IL 62901-4329, 618-453-2243, etjurkow@siu.edu

The traditional view of health disparities has focused upon racial and ethnic minorities, since it has been assumed that this group are more likely to be poor and uninsured, however more recently the concept of health inequalities due to socio-economic factors has been brought to the forefront. In order to address these issues this study targeted three specific aims: 1)To identify how SES is related to health disparities relative to depression and cognitive ability as one ages; 2)To explain how SES leads to health disparities relative to depression and functional status for older adults; and 3)To identify how health disparities are similar in outcomes for depression among community dwelling older adults (60+) living in urban and rural settings. Methods: A descriptive cross sectional study using 3,200 cases identified through a midwest state's In Home Service Case Coordination units through four regional areas will be randomly selected using a sample of adults over 60 years of age and identified as needing mental health services. Descriptive statistics, ANOVA, Binary and logistic regression techniques used in the data analysis process revealed that inequities exist particularly in rural communities. The findings help build our understanding of the role SES plays in mental health service utilization for older adults. The outcomes are intended to assist public health policy makers and program planners in the improvement of service delivery and intervention strategies related to mental health access for older adults.

Learning Objectives: At the end of this session participants will

• Understand how health disparities impact mental health outcomes for older adults.
• Understand how health disparities impact service utilization for older adults.
• Be familiar with at least three advocacy strategies which can be used to improve mental health outcomes and service utlization for older adults.

Keywords: Mental Health, Aging

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Not Answered