Researcher(s)
- James Evans, Health Behavior Science, University of Delaware
Faculty Mentor(s)
- Julia O’Hanlon, Biden School of Public Health, University of Delaware
Abstract
Delaware is one of the nation’s fastest-aging states, increasing the demand for the support older adults need to maintain their health and well-being. As state and local governments prepare for continued demographic change, evidence-based planning and evaluation are becoming more and more important for ensuring that programs effectively address the evolving needs of Delaware’s aging population.
As an Undergraduate Policy and Research Fellow with the University of Delaware’s Institute for Public Administration (IPA), I supported multiple initiatives focused on healthy aging and senior center operations. My work included reviewing Grant-in-Aid applications, developing standardized transportation assessment protocols for senior centers, preparing for site visits, and researching state and national aging initiatives.
My presentation highlights how IPA supports Delaware’s Healthy Aging policy area through program evaluation, senior center assessments, transportation services, and strategic planning initiatives. It also explores how standardized assessment tools and partnerships with state agencies can support future planning and funding decisions.
As Delaware’s older adult population continues to grow, public health and public administration will have an ever-increasing role in helping communities meet the needs of aging residents. This presentation discusses how policy and planning can strengthen services that allow older adults to remain healthy, connected, and independent while identifying opportunities for future growth within IPA’s Health and Aging program area.