Project Overview

This project aimed to enhance engagement in health programs for older adults by identifying and addressing the barriers and benefits affecting facilitator and participant involvement. With an aging population in need of tailored health interventions, our focus was on improving program delivery and outcomes through better engagement strategies. To accomplish this, we explored factors impeding and motivating facilitators and participants, aiming to develop evidence-based approaches to boost their engagement. Special attention was given to understanding these dynamics within African American populations.

Facilitator Interviews

Facilitators play a crucial role in delivering Evidence-Based Programs, using their expertise and commitment to guide participants toward positive change. These interviews explore their experiences, strategies, and the impact they’ve witnessed firsthand

Carol S.

Carol S., a nurse with over 30 years of experience, shares her journey and insights into facilitating health programs for older adults, including fall prevention and fostering community engagement.

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Cathy T.

Public health nurse Cathy discusses her role in facilitating health programs for older adults, challenges in engaging African American participants, and the importance of promoting independence through community outreach.

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Darnell B.

Darnell B., a healthcare facilitator, shares insights on elder care in African American communities, emphasizing myth-busting, family involvement, trust-building, and leveraging faith-based groups for outreach.

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Dr. Desi L.

Dr. Levy shares her journey from nursing to health education, advocacy, and her PhD. She also discusses personal and professional challenges, including her late husband's illness and her role in health programs.

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Linda R.

Linda R. shares her extensive nursing journey, passion for teaching health programs, and insights on engaging older adults, especially in African American communities, emphasizing the importance of connection.

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Kim L.

Kim L. discusses her role as a "Stepping On" program facilitator, highlighting its impact on older adults in fall prevention, community building, and behavior change over her 14-year experience.

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Participant Interviews

Participants in Evidence-Based Programs share their personal journeys, highlighting the challenges faced and the growth achieved. These stories provide insight into how the programs have influenced their lives and shaped their communities.

Ophelia C.

Ophelia C. discusses her active role in community health, her transition from participant to leader in evidence-based health programs, and the importance of making health resources accessible.

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Al M.

Al M., a retired tool and die maker, discusses his love for Milwaukee, his journey into headhunting, and his current participation in a balance exercise class to maintain health and independence in his older years.

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Sonia C.

Sonia C. discusses her upbringing, holistic health approach, daily routines, skepticism of medical professionals, and openness to joining structured health programs despite her mistrust and health challenges.

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Greater Convention Community

Participants discussed barriers to program participation like time, transport, and outreach. They emphasized the need for diverse facilitators and suggested improvements for engagement and accessibility.

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Gloria M.

Gloria M., chair of the wellness division of the Department on Aging, shares her lifelong journey, health challenges, community insights, and advice on staying active and prioritizing health..

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Woods Of Cedar Village

Participants find motivation, community, and learning in the class. Exercises are beneficial, and social interactions key. Programs improve health, pain management, and accountability, promoting active lifestyles.

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Non Participant Interviews

Non-participants offer valuable perspectives on the reach and influence of Evidence-Based Programs within the broader community. Their insights reveal community needs and opportunities for further impact.

Bonita G.

Bonita G., a Milwaukee-based mental health consultant facing health challenges, discusses her daily routines, health management strategies, and openness to joining evidence-based wellness programs

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Cynthia A.

Cynthia A., a retired childcare center owner from Milwaukee, reflects on her life, health challenges, and the importance of faith. She considers joining evidence-based health programs, emphasizing the need for detailed info.

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Ronnie M. & Christine W.

Ronnie M. and Christine W., both on disability, discuss their lives, interests, health challenges, and perspectives on health programs and staying informed, highlighting their routines and reliance on each other.

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Jeni H.

Jenny H., a retired social worker, discusses her life in Riverwest, interests in plants and art, struggles with health and finance, and thoughts on evidence-based wellness programs and community support.

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Deborah D.

Deborah D., a Milwaukee resident, discusses her daily routines, health challenges, and interests. She emphasizes the importance of support in managing her high blood pressure and maintaining healthy habits.

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Michael & Ernestine S.

Michael and Ernestine discuss their health challenges, lifestyle choices, and barriers to participating in evidence-based health programs, highlighting personal experiences and the need for practical incentives.

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Marceline M.

Marceline Mann, a retired educator, discusses life after retirement, caregiving challenges, and managing diabetes. She highlights the importance of staying connected with family and informed through technology.

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Tiana R.

In this interview, Tiana R. discusses her nonprofit work, tech-savvy advocacy for senior engagement, personal health challenges, commitment to self-care, and the influence of role models on her resilience.

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Janet B .

Janet B. discusses seniors' need for support, motivation, and community, advocating for intergenerational programs, improved technology education, better healthcare access, and transportation solutions.

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