Increasing well being and independence for older adults
Healthy Aging is defined as the development and maintenance of optimal physical, mental and social well-being in older adults (CDC, Prevention Research Centers, Healthy Aging Research Network). The Health Trust's overarching vision for its Healthy Aging Initiative is: Older adults spend more years in good health and are engaged as vital members of their communities.

Goals
The Health Trust will focus on the following three goals to address healthy aging:

1. Optimize independence, functioning, and mobility among older adults.
2. Improve access to and utilization of age-effective and culturally competent primary care and support services for older adults.
3. Promote social interaction and community engagement for older adults.
   

Priority Strategies
The Healthy Aging goals and objectives are achieved through Health Trust programs and services, community collaborations, policy and advocacy efforts, and grantmaking.

• Build organizational capacity to integrate physical activity opportunities into programs and services for adults.
• Promote hospital-to-home discharge planning and transition support services.
• Provide leadership for a county-wide Aging Services Collaborative to address service gaps, policy and advocacy, and collaborative fund development.
• Promote support for caregivers
• Support and promote community engagement opportunities or older adults
• Provide nutrition programs to support the needs of older adults (Meals On Wheels)

Click here to read full descriptions of Priority Strategies.

Desired Outcomes

• Increased physical activity
• Improved nutrition intake
• Increased up-to-date routine preventive health services
• Increased ability to remain at home
• Increased capacity and improved health among caregivers
• Increased connections with others
• Healthy aging prioritized in the region