Mission Recognition of and responsiveness to the growing diversity of our aging population is the core of the mission of this consortium. UTCares seeks to support Tennessee's aging population through educational programs and services that provide individuals with knowledge, motivation, and opportunities they need to make informed decisions about their health. More than any other age group, older adults are seeking health information and are willing to make changes to maintain their health and independence. Prevention efforts should focus on modifiable risk behaviors and early diagnosis.
Most older persons have at least one chronic condition and many have multiple conditions.
With all of the changes in healthcare and the rapidly increasing aging baby boomer population, the opportunity to keep people healthy longer, keep them living independently, and keep them functioning longer really needs to be addressed in an aggressive manner. The goal of this consortium is to establish a network of county Extension educators and community partners to promote health behaviors, create healthy environments, and increase access to high-quality health care for aging Tennesseans. County Extension educators and community partners who are focusing on aging programming or who would like to be more involved in aging programming. Developing programs and activities to meet these priorities. Pilot testing and implementing programs through the UT county Extension network.