Week 8 Assignment: Primary Secondary and Tertiary Prevention

In this written assignment, you will explore the health needs of men or the elderly.

Step 1: Choose a health need to investigate.
From the following list, choose ONE health need to focus on for this assignment:

• Health needs of men:prostate health, cardiovascular health, sexual dysfunction, alcohol abuse
• Health needs of elderly:bone health, stroke care, cancer, social isolation

Step 2: Research the incidence and impact of this health need in the United States
Research the incidence and impact of the problem among the specified population. Use at least three scholarly sources (that is, peer-reviewed journal articles or websites written by a group that has expertise and strong credentials in the field of interest). Make sure that you use APA format to properly cite sources used.

Step 3: Propose prevention strategies.
Propose two relevant population-based strategies at each level of prevention (primary, secondary, and tertiary). For example, two strategies for primary prevention, two for secondary and two for tertiary prevention. It is acceptable to either develop your own ideas or highlight strategies that actual community-based programs are doing.

Step 4: Summarize your findings and intervention proposals.
Write a four page minimum paper that includes:

• Introduction
• The incidence and impact of this health problem on the population
• Two relevant population-based strategies at each level of prevention (for a total of six)
• Discuss the strategy that you believe would have the greatest impact, and provide your rationale
• Conclusion
• Reference Page citing all sources using APA format. At least one scholarly source is required for this assignment

Week 8 Assignment: Primary, Secondary, and Tertiary Prevention

Step 1: Choose a Health Need to Investigate

Chosen Health Need: Bone health in the elderly

Step 2: Research the Incidence and Impact of Bone Health Issues in the Elderly in the United States

Incidence and Impact: Bone health issues, particularly osteoporosis and fractures, are significant concerns among the elderly in the United States. Osteoporosis affects approximately 10 million Americans, with an additional 44 million having low bone density, increasing their fracture risk. The condition leads to over 2 million fractures annually, resulting in significant morbidity, reduced quality of life, and increased mortality rates among the elderly. Fractures, especially hip fractures, are associated with long-term disability, loss of independence, and substantial healthcare costs .

Step 3: Propose Prevention Strategies

Primary Prevention:

1. Nutritional Education Programs: Implement community-based programs that educate the elderly on the importance of a diet rich in calcium and vitamin D. These programs can include workshops, cooking classes, and distribution of educational materials to encourage the consumption of bone-healthy foods.
2. Exercise Initiatives: Promote regular weight-bearing and muscle-strengthening exercises through community centers, senior clubs, and online platforms. These initiatives can include group exercise classes, walking clubs, and online workout sessions tailored for the elderly to improve bone density and overall physical health.

Secondary Prevention:

1. Bone Density Screening Campaigns: Organize regular screening events in community health centers, pharmacies, and senior living facilities to identify individuals with low bone density early. Providing access to affordable and accessible bone density tests can help in early diagnosis and intervention.
2. Fall Risk Assessments: Conduct comprehensive fall risk assessments in homes, senior centers, and healthcare facilities to identify environmental hazards and personal risk factors. Interventions such as home modifications, balance training, and assistive devices can be implemented based on the assessment results.

Tertiary Prevention:

1. Fracture Liaison Services: Establish fracture liaison services that provide coordinated care for elderly patients who have suffered fractures. These services ensure that patients receive appropriate treatment, rehabilitation, and follow-up care to prevent subsequent fractures and improve recovery outcomes.
2. Rehabilitation Programs: Develop specialized rehabilitation programs that focus on restoring mobility, strength, and independence after fractures. These programs can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, and support groups to aid in the recovery process and enhance the quality of life for elderly patients.

Step 4: Summarize Your Findings and Intervention Proposals

Introduction: Bone health is a critical issue among the elderly population in the United States, with osteoporosis and fractures posing significant health risks. Addressing these concerns through effective prevention strategies at various levels can greatly improve the quality of life and reduce healthcare burdens.

Incidence and Impact: Bone health issues, such as osteoporosis, affect millions of elderly Americans, leading to fractures and associated complications. These conditions result in substantial healthcare costs, long-term disability, and increased mortality rates, highlighting the need for comprehensive prevention strategies.

Prevention Strategies:

1. Primary Prevention:
   • Nutritional Education Programs
   • Exercise Initiatives
2. Secondary Prevention:
   • Bone Density Screening Campaigns
   • Fall Risk Assessments
3. Tertiary Prevention:
   • Fracture Liaison Services
   • Rehabilitation Programs

Greatest Impact Strategy: The implementation of fall risk assessments and subsequent interventions is likely to have the greatest impact. By identifying and mitigating fall risks, many fractures can be prevented, thus reducing the incidence of severe complications and improving the overall health and independence of the elderly population.

Conclusion: Addressing bone health in the elderly through a combination of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention strategies can significantly reduce the burden of osteoporosis and fractures. By focusing on nutritional education, exercise, screening, fall prevention, and comprehensive care for fracture patients, we can enhance the quality of life and health outcomes for the elderly.

References:

1. National Osteoporosis Foundation. (2021). Osteoporosis fast facts. Retrieved from [source]
2. International Osteoporosis Foundation. (2020). Facts and statistics about osteoporosis and its impact. Retrieved from [source]
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Osteoporosis and bone health. Retrieved from [source]