Developing wellness programs: a nurse-managed Stay Well Center for senior citizens

Area of Science:

• Geriatric Health
• Community Nursing
• Preventive Healthcare

Background:

• Senior citizens, particularly performing artists in NYC, face challenges maintaining community ties post-career.
• A federally subsidized high-rise residential complex housed a unique senior population with specific needs.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the development process of a nurse-managed wellness center for senior citizens.
• To assess senior interest and participation in a new wellness center.
• To explore strategies for project implementation within complex systems.

Main Methods:

• Conducted a health needs assessment to gauge interest and potential participation.
• Clinical nurse specialists led the needs assessment, proposal, and system navigation.
• Focused on establishing a hospital-based, preventative health center.

Main Results:

• The development process from conception to implementation was detailed.
• Strategies for navigating political and organizational systems were explored.
• A viable, innovative, hospital-based wellness center focused on prevention was established.

Conclusions:

• Nurse-managed wellness centers can be successfully developed and implemented for unique senior populations.
• Needs assessment and strategic system navigation are crucial for establishing community-based health initiatives.
• Preventive healthcare models are vital for enhancing senior well-being and community engagement.