Helping seniors stay on their feet: A comprehensive health promotion program for residents at a senior apartment complex

Approximately 13 % of the US population is over the age of 65, and experts anticipate the senior population to triple by the year 2050. The growth of the senior population combined with increased life expectancy will add to the number of individuals with chronic diseases and bodily injuries related to age. As we age, our mobility and strength decrease. As a result, seniors are at a higher risk of being severely injured when they fall. Falls are positively correlated with increased susceptibility to diseases and are a contributing factor to the death rate of this population. Graduate students conducted a targeted needs and asset (NA+A) assessment with residents at the Victoria Woods Senior Apartments in San Bernardino, CA. Data were collected through windshield surveys, literature reviews, site observations, 8 theory-based semi-structured interviews, and a confirmatory focus group. Data were coded, themed and analyzed using Grounded Theory methods. Emerging themes revealed a strong need for increasing the number of hand rails around the apartment complex, specifically around the pool area to improve safety and increase exercise opportunities. Residents also suggested classes on fall prevention which would decrease the fear of falling, increasing the number of exercise classes, a low-cost healthy cooking class, money management classes, a motivational class to enhance a sense of community, and a community garden for producing healthy vegetables and fruits. We then developed, implemented and evaluated a pilot program using process and impact evaluation for program improvement. Results will be discussed in light of program sustainability.