The 60 and Better Program: a primary health care program for the aged

The emergence of community-based primary health care programs is considered to be one way of improving the health of the community, including the older population. While community-based programs are considered to provide worthwhile resources to a range of individuals, regular evaluation of these services is required to ensure the services are meeting the needs of the community. This paper discusses 'The 60 and Better Program' as a means of improving the health of the older population. It is argued that as the program aims to empower the older population and to promote equity and access, the program is meeting the major principles of primary health care, and thus working towards improving and maintaining the health of the target group of the older population. It is further argued that the nurse has a major role in encouraging older members of our community to become active in programs such as "The 60 and Better Program'.