The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #56852

Elizabeth Rossmann Beel, MPH¹, Chanda A. Riley, BSN, RN², Witold M. Migala, MPH, PhD¹, Michael J. Kazda, MA³, and Jessica D. Martinez, MPH¹. (1) Epidemiology & Assessment, City of Fort Worth Public Health Department, 1800 University Dr., Ste 216, Fort Worth, TX 76107, (2) Outreach Division, City of Fort Worth Public Health Department, 1800 University Dr., Ste 216, Fort Worth, TX 76107, (3) Department of Public Health, City of Fort Worth, 1800 University Drive, Room 218, Fort Worth, TX 76107

Chronic conditions are an inevitable part of life for many older adults. The debilitating effects and associated costs of such diseases can be mitigated through participation in a behavior change program. This type of secondary prevention focuses on controlling the sequelae of chronic conditions, thereby allowing elders to improve quality of life by keeping themselves in good health. Stanford University has developed a chronic disease self-management program to help individuals improve the management of the symptoms and effects of their chronic condition. This program was tailored locally for use in the elderly community. Older adults suffering from mental health issues and economic hardships were specifically targeted. As part of population-based outreach nursing, venues including community centers, faith communities, senior living residences, and mental health centers were identified as beneficiaries of the program. Participants (n=130) were enrolled in six-week series of programs throughout 2002. Topics covered included coping skills, exercises, communication skills, and nutrition. The evaluation protocol consisted of a pre-program health behavior instrument with a six-month follow-up to assess lasting behavior change. Preliminary results identified notable differences in indicators of well-being, reduction of hospitalization days, and decreased emergency room visits. Final results/statistical analyses will be available in summer 2003. With a measurable impact on both individual and societal outcomes, the program is an effective method of improving health and quality of life among older populations.

Learning Objectives:

• Identify the necessary components of a chronic disease self management program for elders; Analyze and evaluate the benefits of the program on individual participants and on the medical care system.

Keywords: Elderly, Community-Based Health Promotion

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.