THE BENEFIT OF COOPERATIVE EXTENSION FOR OLDER ADULT MENTAL HEALTH AND FUTURE GERONTOLOGICAL RESEARCH OPPORTUNITIES
2024

The Benefit of Cooperative Extension for Older Adult Mental Health

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Author Information

Author(s): Meinertz Naomi, Perepezko Kate, Buys David

Primary Institution: Oxford University Press US

Hypothesis

The Cooperative Extension system can effectively improve older adult mental health through partnerships with researchers.

Conclusion

The symposium highlights successful collaborations between academic faculty and Cooperative Extension systems that positively impact older adult mental health.

Supporting Evidence

  • The Cooperative Extension system is well-positioned to reach older adults in every U.S. state.
  • Community-based Participatory Research methods have been used successfully with the Extension system.
  • Culturally adapting programs through the Extension system can enhance social connectedness among older adults.
  • Programs like 'Rightsizing' help older adults manage hoarding behaviors by addressing emotional connections.

Takeaway

This study shows that working together with community programs can help older people feel better and more connected.

Methodology

The symposium includes presentations on systematic reviews and community-based participatory research methods.

Limitations

Older adults who are rural or socially isolated are often underrepresented in research.

Participant Demographics

Older adults, particularly those who are rural and socially isolated.

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1093/geroni/igae098.1697

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