Among the most vulnerable populations for negative health outcomes are older adults. According to the National Council on Aging (NCOA) “millions of seniors struggle with challenges such as chronic diseases, falls, physical inactivity, oral health concerns, and behavioral health issues-all which can severely impact quality of life.” (www.ncoa.org)
In line with Darem’s mission to improve the health of communities through education, we’ve created the “University of Health”; a 10-week program, offered at OneStop Bufford & Senior Center, to enrich the lives of the older adult population of Gwinnett County, Georgia. The focus of every session is to provide participants with useful information and tools to help improve their health and well-being.
Darem’s “University of Health” will cover topics that include: Osteoporosis, Fall Prevention, Heart Disease, Financial Fitness, Sleep, Mental Health, Value Health Care, Medication Management, Physical Activity, and Advanced Planning. To help us deliver accurate and up-to-date information, we will collaborate with guests and experts during each presentation. Upon completion of the program, a graduation ceremony will take place to recognize our students’ participation and interest in taking charge of their health.
It is not only our goal to provide accurate and relevant information at the “University of Health,” but also to empower older adults to take an active role in their own health to live better, healthier lives.
Darem expects to deliver this health program to other senior centers and senior care facilities, to help make relevant health information accessible to all older adults.
We’re honored to be active participants in our community and to continue our efforts at bridging the gap in health education.
