Why is this a priority area? The percentage of older adults in Calhoun County is expected to continue to grow. The occurrence of chronic disease among older adults is also very high in our county. The cost of care for those with chronic disease is proportionately higher than those who maintain their health and have fewer chronic conditions. A key aspect of impacting older adult health is prevention of chronic conditions including those impacted by lifestyle choices.

Chronic conditions and poor older adult health impacts life expectancy, level of independence, and quality of life. This impact is felt throughout our community – economically, socially and within the established social structures that make up our community.

Goal 1: Reduce occurrence and impact of isolation on the health and independence of seniors

Objective 1.1: Improve sustainability and access to senior centers and senior center activities

Objective 1.2: Promote opportunities for volunteerism and ongoing community engagement among seniors

Goal 2: Enhance the physical and mental well-being of older adults

Objective 2.1: Promote participation in evidenced based programs that contribute to health and wellbeing of older adults and caregivers

Objective 2.2: Increase awareness and access to supportive services for persons with dementia and their caregivers

Objective 2.3: Assure greater access and improved delivery of long-term care supports and services for caregivers and seniors

Objective 2.4: Improve effectiveness of resource navigation and information and assistance, especially in rural and underserved areas to improve access and utilization of services for caregivers, persons with dementia and older adults

Goal 3: Older and/or vulnerable adults live free from abuse, neglect and exploitation

Objective 3.1: Increase awareness of occurrence of elder abuse

Objective 3.2: Improve capacity of community to respond to abuse situations including increased reporting and prosecution of abusers and education of the community so as to increase protective factors for vulnerable adults

What the data says:

Alzheimer’s disease is one of the top 10 leading causes of death for older adults in Calhoun County. The rate of death is trending upward (negatively) compared to both state and national indices.
Average life expectancy for seniors in Calhoun County beyond age 65 years is 4.4 years less in Calhoun County than in other areas of the country. Nationally, life expectancy for females is 81.5 years; in Calhoun County an older adult female life expectancy is only 79 years. For men, nationally life expectancy is 76.7 years whereas in Calhoun County the life expectancy for a man is only 74.5 years.
Calhoun County has a higher rate of occurrence of multiple chronic conditions among older adults and a higher rate of mortality for all causes than other areas of Michigan.

See all related indicators

Over time, the Calhoun value is increasing significantly. Over time, the Calhoun value is increasing significantly.

Age-Adjusted Death Rate due to Alzheimer's Disease

Over time, the Calhoun value is decreasing, not significantly. Over time, the Calhoun value is decreasing, not significantly.

Alzheimer's Disease or Dementia: Medicare Population

County: Calhoun

(Compared to Trend over Time)

Updates

CareWell Services Southwest is the legislatively mandated focal point for aging services charged with advocacy, program planning and development, service coordination, funding and participation in strategic collaborations that work to identify and delivery services to meet the needs of older adults. In its role as the area agency on aging, CWS conducts a needs assessment every three years. This process helps identify priorities and goals related to the health and wellbeing of older adults in Calhoun County.

		Dementia Friendly Communities The Dementia Friendly Communities Initiative is a local effort to inspire the creation of a community that is aware of the impact of dementia and the needs of those affected; where systems of care for persons with dementia well-coordinated and adequate; and where all aspects of the community seek preserve the dignity to ensure a high quality of life for persons with dementia and their families. The DFC Coalition focuses on awareness, coordination and environment as pillars of impact to address this current community and public health challenge collectively. The Coalition is led by a leadership committee and meets bi-monthly. Contact Karla Fales at 269-441-0976 for more information.

		Calhoun County Elder Abuse Prevention Calhoun County Elder Abuse Prevention Coalition was established to reduce and prevent the abuse of vulnerable adults through community awareness, education and action. Goals include community-wide training and awareness; outreach and education programs; and creating a focal point for information and resources for individuals impacted. For more information, contact CareWell Services at 269-966-2450.