Healthy Aging
Healthy aging is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as the development and maintenance of optimal physical, mental, and social well-being. Effective health promotion addresses individual behavior as well as community support systems. The Tennessee Department of Health promotes healthy aging to support the quality of life of older adults.
How can communities promote healthy aging and livable communities?
A livable community is one that encourages physical activity, is safe, and has accessible, affordable housing. AARP partners with state and local public health departments to promote well-designed, livable communities through the Partnership for Sustainable Communities, an interagency initiative led by HUD, the Department of Transportation, and the Environmental Protection Agency.
Why is physical activity important for older adults?
Physical activity may protect brain health, according to the ALC’s Brain Health as You Age website. According to the CDC, one-third of older adults do not get regular physical activity. NIA is working with public and private organizations to empower older adults to become more physically active.
How can we implement fall prevention and safety?
Fall injuries were among the 20 most expensive medical conditions in 2013, with direct medical costs totaling 34 billion dollars. Falls are the leading cause of both fatal and nonfatal injuries among older adults, and participants in fall prevention programs can help reduce their risk of falling.
Why is proper nutrition important for older adults?
Many health issues associated with aging can be controlled and delayed by eating healthier. Creating healthy communities can ensure access to affordable and healthy foods as well as outlets for fresh fruits and vegetables. Clinical preventive services, such as cancer screenings and flu and pneumonia immunizations, can help prevent disease or detect disease early.
Why focus on adults aged 50-64 for clinical preventive services?
The National Adult Immunization Plan establishes four key goals for adult immunization coverage, access, and awareness. Early detection can save up to 35 percent of the net cost of breast cancer treatment. Early detection of cervical cancer through population-wide screening can save up to 35 percent of the net cost of cervical cancer treatment.
Who advocates for older Tennesseans?
The mission of the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability is to protect and ensure the quality of life and independence of older Tennesseans and adults with disabilities through programs such as caregiver support, long-term care, nutrition, public guardianship, and elder abuse prevention.
What is my area Human Resource Agency?
In Tennessee, there are ten Human Resource Agencies that provide social services to help people feel good about themselves and their lives. Their services cover a wide range of human needs, including children and youth, education and employment, nutrition, and housing.
How does universal design benefit older adults?
Universal design features include step-free entry, curb ramps, levers, and handheld adjustable showerheads. Universal design means that things are accessible to all people, whether or not they have a disability. Places designed for people of all ages and abilities are more flexible, efficient, and comfortable.
What is elder abuse in Tennessee?
Elder abuse is defined by the National Center on Elder Abuse (NCEA) as “intentional or negligent acts by a caregiver or ‘trusted’ individual that cause, or may cause, harm to a vulnerable elder.”
What is the penalty for elder abuse in Tennessee?
A conviction for a class B felony carries a sentence of eight to thirty years in prison and a $25,000 fine, compared to three to fifteen years in prison and a $10,000 fine for a class C felony. The law also broadens who can seek a protection order for an abuse victim.
What kind of help do elderly need?
A senior citizen’s daily needs for personal care may include assistance with bathing, dressing, and personal grooming, which a home-health aide or other family member can provide if necessary.
What happens if an elderly person falls?
Falls can result in hip fractures and other injuries that require lengthy hospitalization and have long-term consequences. If you’ve ever fallen before, even if you weren’t hurt, see your doctor for a check-up.
Who do you report elder abuse to in Tennessee?
Reporting Elder Abuse and Neglect Tennessee is a mandatory reporting state, so if you see or suspect that an adult is being abused, neglected, or exploited, you must report it to the Tennessee Department of Human Services Adult Protective Services unit, which can be reached toll-free at 888-277-8366.
How do you prove elderly financial abuse?
One or more of the following must be proven to prove a breach by the fiduciary or someone else:
- Increased or changed spending habits.
- Someone added to the senior’s financial accounts.
- Unpaid health care costs or no health care.
- Changes in the senior’s estate.
What is a Class E felony in Tennessee?
Class E Felony The least serious felonies, class E felonies, carry a sentence of one to six years in prison and a fine of up to $3,000 in Tennessee. Class E felonies are charged with theft of property valued between $500 and $1,000.
Is elder abuse a felony in Tennessee?
(b) Neglecting an elderly adult is a felony of the Class E variety.
What is considered elderly financial abuse?
Elder financial abuse is the illegal or improper use of an elderly person’s property, finances, or other assets without their informed consent, or with consent obtained through fraud, manipulation, or duress.
What do old people do for fun?
Here are some fun things for seniors to do.
- Board Games.
- Art/Drawing/Painting.
- Journaling/Writing.
- Hiking/Nature.
- Theater.
- Go to a Movie.
- Volunteer.
How do I make my elderly feel valued?
Continue reading to learn how to make your elderly parent feel needed and useful.
- Show Interest. You need to do more than just listen to your loved one.
- Promote Creative Activities.
- Give More Compliments. If you make all the decisions around the house, it could affect your loved one’s mental health.
- Ask for Advice. If you make all the decisions around the house, it could affect your loved one’s mental health.
How do you make an elderly person happy?
These seven suggestions are ideal for any senior who wishes to live a happy retirement.
- Maintain a Sense of Humor.
- Go Outside Every Day.
- Give Back to the Community.
- Keep Smiling.
- Discover New Interests.
- Stay Healthy.
- Give Back to the Community.
What are the most serious consequences of a fall in the elderly?
Fractures are the most serious consequence of falls for seniors (short of death). The hip, femur (thigh bone), pelvis, and vertebrae (spine) are the most common bones to fracture in falls.
What causes balance problems in elderly?
Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and Multiple Sclerosis are just a few of the long-term medical conditions that can affect balance. In addition, arthritis, heart problems, and certain medications seniors take for chronic illnesses can all contribute to unsteadiness.
What is the most common cause of falls in the elderly?
Illnesses and physical conditions can affect your strength and balance, and poor lighting and throw rugs in your home can cause you to trip or fall.