Wellness for Mature Populations

The communities surrounding a nursing center host a higher than city-wide percentage of mature and older adults, many of whom are low income minorities. A survey of urban mature and aging populations reflects the leading causes of death as those of state and national statistics. State data showed that 45 – 64 year olds died from cancer, heart disease, accidents, respiratory disease, and stroke while data for older populations of 65 -85 show that death occurred from cancer, heart disease, respiratory disease, stroke, and diabetes. Many adults of this age have some access to medical care. This health intervention program targets mature and older adults for health promotion about managing chronic disease and preventing disability and death. Nurses educate adults about their role in obtaining and using health insurance and their medical providers, as well as knowledge and skills about their health problems and health promotion activities. The nursing team also provides health screening, and referral and follow-up using the nursing center laboratory and plans vaccine administration to local communities. Collaboration with community leaders and medical providers enhance the positive effects of wellness interventions. The wellness center approach will be discussed with a view of early lessons learned, funding resources, successes and challenges. Recommendations for improvement and sustainability will be discussed.