Health promotion for older adults.

Abstract

In light of the growing numbers of older persons, exponential increases in chronic health conditions, and rising health-care costs, our society is pressed to explore new strategies for maintaining and improving health in the later years. Studies have found that positive lifestyle changes can have an impact on the health status at any age, and can help to manage, postpone, and even prevent certain chronic health conditions. Several "model" health promotion programs designed specifically for older persons have demonstrated effectiveness in this area. This article proposes that health promotion for older adults should be taken seriously as an approach to managing chronic illness and mitigating high health-care costs in an "Aging Society."