Strategies for sucesssful aging: a holistic and community based wellness pilot program

Author

Anna O'Gorman

Graduation Date

2016

Document Type

Project

Program

Other

Program

Project (M.S.W.)--Humboldt State University, Social Work, 2016

Committee Chair Name

Yvonne Doble

Committee Chair Affiliation

HSU Faculty or Staff

Keywords

Seniors, Wellness program, Wellness curriculum, Movement, Humboldt State University -- Projects -- Social Work, Mindfulness, Successful aging

Abstract

With a quickly increasing global aging trend, communities are working to modify and increase programming to meet the needs of our aging population. Aging is often viewed through deficiency based models that focus on decline and loss of function. The lens of deficiency can impact program development and delivery. Social workers and health care professions are striving to provide strength-based innovative practices and policies that support the holistic needs of our aging population. The goal of this project was to develop and implement a wellness program that explores resiliency factors in the aging process. Using a strength based theoretical framework of successful aging, the curriculum incorporated mindfulness, breath centered movement, and social engagement with peers. The program was piloted at a rural northern California Senior Resource Center. The curriculum was refined through feedback and reflection of the implementation, with the development of a manual for further facilitation of this course material. An employee of the senior resource center was present at all six weeks to develop an understanding of the material to offer in the class in the future and support sustainability. Sharing the manual with other local senior resource programs was an area identified for future implementation.

https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/47429c58j

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