RD219 - Annual Progress Report of James Madison University on the Effect of the Aging Population on State Agencies


Executive Summary:
James Madison University recognizes the changing demographics of our society and has implemented new units and programs to serve our local aging population. For the last ten years, our Life Long Learning Institute (LLI) has provided programming to this growing population. In the last year, the LLI had 513 members over the age of 50 and provided programs for our senior population. In addition, our Nursing Program provides multiple programs for seniors including the Caregivers Community Network that in the last year served approximately 125 elderly members of the community and their caregivers. This group also has a clinical practicum that is currently run by 130 students both graduate and undergraduate, serving 12 clinics per semester (24 per year).These sites include senior centers, retirement communities, hospitals, primary care offices, clinics, and rehabilitation centers. A conservative estimate of their impact is 3400 elderly community members annually. JMU also operates the Adult Health and Development Program (ADHP). The focus of AHDP is on building relationships and enhancing the members' sense of personal wellness. The program is open to all adults 50+, without regard to level of ability. Finally, JMU offers tuition waivers for seniors interested in taking courses on the JMU campus. While this program has not been well subscribed, JMU will continue to offer this important program to the senior population.