A cost-effective strategy to create a stimulating cognitive, physical, and social environment in a multi-ethnic older adult housing complex

Environment, as conceptualized by the person-environment competence model, plays a pivotal role in successful aging. Current research on brain plasticity emphasizes the importance of stimulating cognitive, physical, and social activities in order to preserve and improve a person's brain functioning and overall performance. These three domains and their interactions have also been identified by Rowe and Kahn as essential components in their successful aging paradigm.

This paper elaborates on how we translated current scientific knowledge and proven gerontological concepts and paradigms into the development and implementation of comprehensive cost-effective programs for multi-ethnic older adults (N=199) residing in a high-rise, non-profit, apartment complex. Residents live independently with no personal assistance or housekeeping services provided by the management company.

Elements of the PRECEDE-PROCEED model guided the planning process. A comprehensive needs assessment (face-to-face interview) was conducted in 5 languages. The response rate was 82 percent. Based upon the assessment, the owner of the apartment complex contacted the local university. Departments were invited to design and implement programs where student interns (undergraduate and graduate, supervised by faculty) can provide classes, tailored for older adults, i.e., exercise, chronic disease prevention/management and nutrition in the apartment's common use areas (library, patio, and multipurpose room). Also, the apartment complex will be designated a satellite location for the university's life-long learning center, where older adults can instruct the residents in art, computer skills and the Internet.

In conclusion, the integration of existing community and higher education programs into multi-ethnic senior housing sites will be discussed.