Identify challenges posed with an aging population. Develop an action plan to address one of the CDC challenges.

QUESTION

Identify challenges posed with an aging population. Develop an action plan to address one of the CDC challenges.

Submission Requirements:

The paper is to be formatted per current APA, be clear, concise and students will lose points for improper grammar, punctuation and misspelling.
The paper is to be 3-4 pages in length, excluding the title, abstract and references page.
Incorporate a minimum of 3 current (published within last five years) scholarly journal articles or primary legal sources (statutes, court opinions) within your work.
Journal articles and books should be referenced according to current APA style.
Identify the Call to Action challenge selected from the CDC report State of Aging and Health in America 2013.
Explore the challenge in the literature.
Identify best practices (if available).
Develop an action plan that could be implemented in your community.

Read and watch the lecture resources & materials below early in the week to help you respond to the discussion questions and to complete your assignment(s).

(Note: The citations below are provided for your research convenience. Students should always cross reference the current APA guide for correct styling of citations and references in their academic work.)

Read
Purtilo, R. & Doherty, R. (2016). Ethical Dimensions in the Health Professions (6th ed.). St. Louis, MO: Elsevier. ISBN: 9780323328920
Chapters 3, 4, and 5

ANSWER

Addressing Challenges Posed by an Aging Population: A Community Action Plan

Introduction

The aging population presents various challenges that require proactive measures to ensure their well-being and enhance their quality of life. This essay aims to identify the challenges posed by an aging population, develop an action plan to address one of the CDC challenges, explore the selected Call to Action challenge from the CDC report “State of Aging and Health in America 2013,” and propose best practices for implementation in the community.

Challenges Posed by an Aging Population

Call to Action Challenge: “Promote Active and Healthy Aging”

Exploration of the Challenge in the Literature

The selected Call to Action challenge, promoting active and healthy aging, emphasizes the importance of enabling older adults to lead active and fulfilling lives. The literature highlights several key factors contributing to this challenge. These include age-related health conditions, physical limitations, social isolation, lack of access to healthcare services, and insufficient opportunities for engagement in physical, social, and cognitive activities. These challenges can lead to reduced physical and mental well-being, diminished quality of life, and increased healthcare utilization.

Best Practices

To address the challenge of promoting active and healthy aging, several best practices have emerged from research and successful community initiatives. These practices include:

Health Promotion Programs: Implement evidence-based health promotion programs tailored to the needs of older adults. These programs may focus on physical activity, nutrition, fall prevention, chronic disease management, and mental health promotion. Collaborate with local healthcare providers, community organizations, and senior centers to offer these programs.

Age-Friendly Infrastructure: Develop age-friendly infrastructure that promotes physical activity and active transportation. This includes creating accessible walking paths, bike lanes, and public spaces with seating areas, exercise equipment, and amenities that cater to the needs of older adults.

Social Engagement and Community Participation: Facilitate opportunities for social engagement and community participation among older adults. Establish social clubs, interest groups, and volunteer programs to foster connections and provide a sense of purpose and belonging.

Accessible Healthcare Services: Ensure older adults have easy access to healthcare services by establishing geriatric clinics, promoting home-based healthcare options, and providing transportation assistance for medical appointments. Collaborate with healthcare providers to offer preventive screenings and health education sessions.

Caregiver Support and Respite Services: Recognize the importance of informal caregivers and provide support services to alleviate their burden. Establish respite care programs, caregiver training workshops, and support groups to promote caregiver well-being and ensure the provision of quality care for older adults.

Action Plan for Implementation in the Community

Objective: Promoting active and healthy aging in the community.

Community Needs Assessment: Conduct a comprehensive needs assessment to identify the specific health and social needs of older adults in the community. Engage with local organizations, healthcare providers, and older adults themselves to gather data and insights.

Collaborative Partnerships: Foster collaborations with community stakeholders, including healthcare providers, senior centers, local government, and nonprofit organizations. Pool resources and expertise to develop and implement programs and initiatives aimed at promoting active and healthy aging.

Health Promotion Initiatives: Implement evidence-based health promotion programs that target physical activity, nutrition, chronic disease management, and mental health. Offer these programs in community centers, senior residences, and through virtual platforms to increase accessibility.

Age-Friendly Infrastructure: Advocate for age-friendly infrastructure improvements in the community, such as walkability enhancements, accessible public transportation, and the development of community parks and recreational spaces that cater to the needs of older adults.

Social Engagement and Volunteer Opportunities: Establish social clubs, interest groups, and volunteer programs that provide older adults with opportunities for social interaction, community involvement, and meaningful engagement.

Caregiver Support Services: Develop caregiver support programs that offer respite care, caregiver training, and support groups. Collaborate with local caregiver organizations and healthcare providers to provide comprehensive support for informal caregivers.

Conclusion

Addressing the challenges posed by an aging population requires a comprehensive action plan that promotes active and healthy aging. By focusing on the Call to Action challenge of promoting active and healthy aging, communities can enhance the well-being and quality of life of their older population. Through strategic partnerships, evidence-based practices, and targeted interventions, communities can create an environment that supports older adults in leading fulfilling and active lives.