Document Type

Report

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This item is protected by copyright and/or related rights. You are free to use this item in any way that is permitted by the copyright and related rights legislation that applies to your use. In addition, no permission is required from the rights-holder(s) for educational uses. For other uses, you need to obtain permission from the rights-holder(s).

Publication Date

1-2007

Place of conference

University of Southern Maine & University of Maine at Orono

Conference Sponsor

Maine Health Access Foundation

Abstract/ Summary

The rapid aging of Maine’s population has created a range of challenges associated with maximizing the health and well-being of our older citizens. This issue brief considers a series of policy and programmatic approaches to promoting healthy aging lifestyles in the state while ensuring the continued involvement of relatives and other informal supports in all such efforts. Much of the current legislation that governs policy decisions regarding social service delivery and allocation of funds for Maine’s elders is funneled through the Older Americans Act, but this has not kept pace over the past 20 years. One key factor that is often overlooked is the promotion of a healthy and active lifestyle among aging individuals. By age 75, one in two women and one in three men get no daily physical activity. Physical activity can reduce the likelihood of falls, medicalization, and institutionalization. It is important to take initiatives so that older individuals can live independently for as long as possible. This can be accomplished through implementing best practices, supporting resource centers, and educating older adults about prevention programs.

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pre-print (i.e. pre-refereeing)

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Rights Statement

In Copyright - Educational Use Permitted.