Implementing Multidisciplinary Wellness Programs in Subsidized Housing: University–Community Partnerships

ABSTRACT

University–community partnerships (UCPs) are an important avenue for providing wellness services to seniors in subsidized housing, but there is sparse literature on this topic. The goals of this article are to (a) describe our UCP, which was unique in involving ethnically diverse older adults, and (b) discuss findings of an integrative literature review of UCP examples in subsidized housing. Results showed that UCPs typically received funding for program development and implementation; used multidisciplinary approaches to needs assessment and programming; and reported positive outcomes such as improvement in self-rated health or participant endorsements. This article provides insights and guidance for future UCPs that are much needed in subsidized housing.

KEYWORDS:

• University–community partnership
• multidisciplinary wellness program
• subsidized housing
• aging in place
• senior wellness

Acknowledgments

The authors thank the following institutions and individuals for their support for various aspects of this project: MidPen Resident Services Corp; the College of Applied Sciences and Arts, San Jose State University; staff and residents of Monte Vista Terrace; and faculty and students affiliated with the Center for Healthy Aging in Multicultural Populations (CHAMP).