Leading Tomorrow’s Senior Centers
Date
2009-07
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Institute for Public Administration
Abstract
American society has traditionally desired “quick fixes” such as prescription drugs to treat physical and mental health conditions, which may contribute to the one-third of older adults over the age of 65 who lead sedentary lifestyles. However, a growing body of research suggests that disease-prevention approaches and healthier behaviors can offer longer-term societal and economic benefits.
Senior centers can enhance individuals’ health-behavior change through preventive approaches and high-quality programs. Given today’s fiscal environment, senior centers may be interested in learning more about economically savvy approaches to promoting healthy lifestyles through community-based programs and services known to prevent the onset of chronic conditions and risk of injury. The participation in health-promoting and disease-preventing programs will further assist older adults in overcoming barriers to mobility and transportation, maintaining independence, and achieving better overall health and well-being.