Adult Development and Aging
The proportion of older adults in the United States is growing at an unprecedented rate. By 2050, Americans aged 65 or older may number nearly 89 million (more than double their number in 2010). The rapid aging of the U.S. population is being driven by two realities: Americans are living longer lives and the post-World War II baby boom has resulted in proportionately more older adults. The aging of our population has wide-ranging implications for virtually every facet of American society, including public health, housing and community needs, and family development.
We're here to help!
K-State Research and Extension Adult Development and Aging programming enriches the lives of Kansans and their families by addressing health and wellness needs unique to older adults or those that influence an individual's ability to age well. Our current research-based community education endeavors specifically address the challenges commonly associated with aging, preparing for your future health care, recognizing the signs of Alzheimer's disease, and more. Here are current programs:
Advance Health Care Planning in Kansas: This program introduces the process and documents involved in preparing for your future medical care, should you become unable to speak for yourself. Through this program, you can learn about: Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care, Living Will, HIPPA Authorization, and Pre-Hospital DNRs.
Keys to Embracing Aging: No matter your age, you can take steps now to age well into the future. Keys to Embracing Aging is an interactive program that highlights 12 healthy lifestyle behaviors aimed at helping you age healthfully, successfully, and with increased longevity.
Alzheimer's 101: Education and awareness of Alzheimer's disease is crucial to ettering the lives of those who are currently facing the disease or will face it in the future. This program educates participants on Alzheimer's, its warning signs, the benefits of early detection and diagnosis, and steps to bettering your overall brain health.
Simple Home Modification: Many people want to stay in their homes for as long as possible, and there are several steps to ensure that your home will be suitable for 'aging in place'. This program will help you assess your living space, prioritize modifications, and ultimately help you live independently for a longer period of time.
Gray for a Day: Gray for a Day aims to educate participants on age-related sensory and functional challenges some adults might face through various simulations that reflect daily routines, simple tasks, and leisure or social activities.
Elder Abuse and Neglect - What You Should Know: No one is immune to elder abuse - it can happen to anyone, at any time, and anywhere. Often a silent problem, elder abuse can rob older adults of their dignity and security and leave them feeling fearful and alone. This educational program discusses the warning signs and risk factors of abuse, how to prevent elder abuse, and the steps to report suspected abuse.
Tips for Managing Life After Retirement: Tips for Managing Life After Retirement introduces four key themes that have emerged from research on living a successful, healthy retirement. Participants will learn about how retirement affects relationships, physical and emotional health, and ability to live independently for longer periods of time.
Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansans: Senior Health Insurance Counseling for Kansans (SHICK) is a free program offering Kansans the opportunity to talk with trained community volunteers and get answers to questions about Medicare and other insurance issues.
Powerful Tools for Caregivers: Powerful Tools for Caregivers has shown to improve self-care behaviors, management of emotions, self-efficacy, and use of community resources. This is program that has proven to make a positive difference in the lives of caregivers.
Our Extension Agents have additional resources to help you, including assistance with learning the basics of Zoom. If there is a program that interests you, give us a call!