A Stroke Reduction Health Plan for Older Adults in Rural Sussex County, Delaware

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Gerontology
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Stroke is a major cause of death and disability in US adults aged 65 and over.
• Modifiable risk factors include obesity, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise.
• Sussex County, Delaware, has the highest stroke rate among older adults, with 70% overweight or obese.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an implementable plan to reduce stroke rates in older adults in Sussex County.
• To identify individuals at increased risk for stroke and provide tailored education.
• To leverage the social ecological framework for stroke risk reduction.

Main Methods:

• Utilizing the Stroke Population Risk Tool for individual risk assessment and education.
• Implementing a 12-week community-based stroke education program focused on risk reduction behaviors.
• Employing the Walkability Assessment Tool to improve the physical activity environment at the policy level.

Main Results:

• The proposed plan integrates individual, community, and policy-level interventions.
• Early identification of high-risk individuals is facilitated.
• The plan aims to create a more exercise-conducive environment in Sussex County.

Conclusions:

• A multi-level strategy can effectively reduce stroke rates in older adults.
• Targeted interventions are crucial for addressing modifiable risk factors.
• Long-term reduction in stroke incidence is achievable through sustained efforts.