1. The Need for the SHARP Certificate
The Baby Boomers are turning 65, with over 10,000 Boomers joining the ranks of “older
adult” each day of every year until 2029. This cohort will make up 25% of the United States
population by 2025.1, 6 The older population is also growing increasingly diverse in race,
ethnicity, education and income. This aging and diversification carries significant national
education policy implications, requiring increased attention to preparing workers with
expertise and skills to provide care and services to older adults.1, 2, 3, 4, 5
Chronic diseases affect the quality of life of 133 million Americans (nearly 1 in 2 adults) and
more than 14 million in California.9, 10
By 20307:
 More than 6 of every 10 will be managing more than one chronic condition
 14 million (1 out of 4) will be living with diabetes
 26 million (1 out of 2) will have arthritis
Evidence Based Health Promotion (EBHP) and Disease Prevention National Movement
EBHP is “a process of planning, implementing, and evaluating programs adapted from tested
models or interventions in order to address health issues” in individual and community
settings.8 Since all chronic illnesses involve a significant self-management component, these
programs have demonstrated that they assist older people with chronic illnesses to enjoy vital
and independent lives.
The U.S. Administration on Aging has EBHP and disease prevention programs within the
areas of chronic disease self-care, physical activity, fall prevention, nutrition, depression
and/or substance abuse since 2003. These programs are currently being offered to older
adults by our community service providers in settings such as senior centers, hospitals, health
clinics, and senior housing. California is one of 48 states offering EBHP, serving over
25,000 older adults. The Chronic Disease Self Management Program (CDSMP) in
California, Healthier Living, has expanded to 30 counties, reaching 9,696 Californian’s since
2006.11 The EBHP programs require staff with expertise in program administration,
marketing and program evaluation. The program leaders and facilitators also require specific
training in order to be a certified leader.
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
California’s Need for Workforce Preparation
According to the Aging Labor Force Study conducted by the California Social Work
Education Center, most employed in public social services do not have any formal training
related to aging.12
 60% of CA County Welfare Departments have NO staff with formal training in aging.
 61% of Aging Network Services agencies do not have employees with formal training
in aging.
2. SHARP: Skills for Healthy Aging Resources and Programs
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post
Secondary Education (FIPSE) for three years, 2010-2012. This pilot program was designed
with collaborative grant partners College of the Canyons, Santa Barbara City College,
Partners in Care Foundation, National Council on Aging, California Geriatric Education
Center and the California Council on Gerontology and Geriatrics.
Together, SHARP has created the 4-course, 12-unit certificate to be offered in Fall 2011 and
Spring 2012! The ideal SHARP student will take all four courses at once. Courses are
scheduled to be offered in the afternoons so students can work during the day, and during
Block 2, participate in 60 hours of Internship/CWEE (Cooperative Work Experience
Education) at a community agency.
1
2
3
4
5
BLOCK 1 (6 weeks)
GERO 101
GERO 102
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13 14
BLOCK 2 (10 weeks)
GERO 103
GERO 104
15
16
SHARP…
Is the only college program to prepare personnel to work in community-based aging services
and agencies that offer evidence-based health promotion and disease management programs.
Focuses on the latest evidence for what works in promotion of older adult’s health.
Establishes positive partnerships with community organizations, such as local senior centers,
faith based organizations, and health care organizations.
Offers a unique set of skills and experience that currently doesn’t exist in any other college
program in the nation.
Meets the needs of students to gain practical skills in a short amount of time to work in the
community with older adults.
Provides the opportunity to receive FREE training to become a Certified Chronic Disease
Self-Management Program (CDSMP) or Healthier Living Leader.
Offers exposure and contacts with various employment pathways in the health and social
service professions.
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
GERONTOLOGY 101: Introduction to Healthy Aging
Catalog Course Description
Examines the physical, psychological, and social issues associated with the aging process and
reviews aspects of healthy aging among older adults.
Student Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course, the student will be able to differentiate the current social, political
and economic demographic shifts occurring in U.S. society and how they are shaping the
“Aging of America”, as well as identify social policies affecting older adults. Students will
be able to compare and contrast the various biological, psychological, and social conditions
that can lead to both healthy and non-healthy aging among older adults. Students will also be
able to compare and contrast how the variables of class, gender, race, and ethnicity affect
one’s ability to age healthy, as well as affect their accessibility to medical care and/or social
services.
Specific Objectives
1. Evaluate national, state and local governmental policies and legislation that have
historically shaped social policy, services, and programs related to older adults.
2. Differentiate between services offered through in-home care, adult day care, and longterm residential care and assess the appropriateness of “fit” for older adults based on need
and financial accessibility.
3. Distinguish the various social, medical, and economic programs and policies that assist
older adults in U.S. society.
4. Distinguish between normal changes of aging and diseases of late life.
5. Analyze the impact of taking multiple drugs on the elderly.
6. Formulate a plan that would promote healthy aging.
GERONTOLOGY 102: Behavior Change Theories and Practices
Catalog Course Description
This course examines behavior change, processes, and motivational theories, as well as
negotiation and motivational interviewing, group dynamics, and communication skills with
older adults.
Student Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course, the student will be able to develop a personal philosophy and style
of working with diverse older adult populations to promote healthy behavioral changes and
encourage self management activities. Student will be able to assess principles of behavioral
change, motivational theories, group dynamics, communication processes, motivational
interviewing and group dynamics. Students will also be able to compare and contrast
techniques and strategies to critically think and write about health behavior and selfmanagement processes.
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
GERONTOLOGY 102, cont’d
Specific Objectives
1. Identify legal and ethical responsibilities including confidentiality.
2. Understand the behavioral health issues associated with chronic disease
3. Describe the major behavior change and motivational theories related to behavior change
for older adults.
4. Distinguish personal, social, and environmental factors and barriers influencing or
impeding behavior change among older adults.
5. Practice goal setting methods including personal contracts and action plans.
6. Understand methods that promote effective communication with older adults
7. Exhibit effective listening skills.
8. Assess readiness to change based on various older adult dynamics.
9. Examine group dynamics theory.
10. Demonstrate motivational interviewing techniques.
GERONTOLOGY 103 – Health Promotion: Program Implementation
Catalog Course Description
Introduces specific Evidence-based Health Promotion (EBHP) program for older adults that
addresses issues of chronic disease self-management, physical activity, falls prevention,
depression care management, and medication management while discussing program
instruction and administration.
Student Learning Outcomes
At the end of the course, the student will be able to demonstrate mastery of the required
knowledge and skill sets required to evaluate the skills sets required to effectively lead and/or
coordinate EBHP programs for older adults. Students will also compare and contrast the
current state and national initiatives and strategies for assuring program quality in EBHP
programs.
Specific Objectives
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
Explain the importance of EBHP programs
Outline the common features of EBHP programs.
Compare and contrast the goals, types, and general benefits of EBHP programs.
Demonstrate the facilitation skills necessary for leading EBHP group sessions.
Distinguish skills necessary for program administration.
Describe effective program development and management activities for community based
EBHP programs.
7. Explain importance of fidelity in quality assurance.
8. Outline methods of quality assurance and program evaluation.
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
GERONTOLOGY 104 – Health Promotion: Field Practicum
Catalog Course Description
Provides the capstone course to the SHARP Certificate by employing fieldwork methodology
and program skills in an Evidence-based Health Promotion setting working with older adults.
Student Learning Outcomes
1. At the end of the course, the student will be able to design and implement an EBHP
activity plan for older adults.
2. Students will also be able to evaluate the organizational criteria necessary to facilitate an
EBHP program within a community site.
Specific Objectives
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Employ fieldwork methods in an EBHP setting.
Compare and contrast the principles of fieldwork methodology within an EBHP setting.
Develop a plan for EBHP fieldwork experience.
Assess various organizations/agencies for EBHP fieldwork or placement opportunities.
Employ appropriate communication skills when collaborating with agency staff.
Assist EBHP trainer with group activities and discussions.
Promote client/participant self-management activities.
Demonstrate group facilitation skills.
Demonstrate professional, legal, and ethical practices related to EBHP programs.
Examine the impact of the fieldwork experience on personal basis.
The 3 unit course is comprised of 1 unit CWEE (fieldsite, 60 hours) and 2 units lecture
(classroom, 36 hours) for a total of 96 hours. The Healthier Living Leader Training component is
28 hours at Partners in Care Foundation (4 total days across 2 weeks).
In-Class: 1 hour per week (8 weeks) = 8 hours
At Site: 7.5 hours per week (8 weeks) = 60 hours
Training: 14 hours for 2 weeks (Weeks 9-10) = 28 hours
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
SHARP Target Audience
Marketing Avenues
CURRENT STUDENTS
Student Seeking:
 Quick prep classes
 Skill building
 Hands-on experience
 Jobs
 Career path in aging/health
professions
 Waiting to pursue advanced degree
 Resume building
 Personal knowledge for better
understanding of personal situations
(e.g., parents, relatives)
College & Community
Campus (Departments (current/former students,
and students not accepted to program),
Academic/Career Counseling, Student Services,
and PIO publications, Switchboard)
Surrounding Community (Newspapers, web,
etc.)
SHARP Website
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
Regional 4-Year Colleges and Universities
California Council on Gerontology and
Geriatrics (CCGG)
Distribution to vast network of schools (UC,
CSU, CC), Community Organizations,
State/County Aging Agencies & on website.
Social Media: SHARP Facebook Page
AGING SERVICES PERSONNEL
Management Level Personnel Seeking:
 Minimal time out-of-office for
training
 Affordable class fees
 Gerontology/Aging Content
 Formal education with hands-on
experience (interested in program
level implementation, understanding
community needs, fiscal management,
fidelity and evaluation)
 Better understanding of EBHP
programs offered by their agency
Area Agency on Aging Departments
Los Angeles County, City of Los Angeles,
Ventura County, Santa Barbara and San Luis
Obispo Counties, San Bernardino County,
Potentially Kern, Orange, or Riverside Counties
Los Angeles County Department of Mental
Health (Older Adult Programs)
Ventura County Chronic Disease Collaborative
Camarillo Health Care District, the Ventura
County Area Agency on Aging (VCAAA),
Ventura County Health Care Agency, Partners
In Care Foundation, AARP, Ventura County
Medical Resource Foundation
SHARP Website
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
Program Level Staff Seeking:
 Minimal time out-of-office for
training
 Affordable class fees
 Skills for current job in EBHP or
position working with older adults
 Formal education with hands-on
experience (interested in program
level implementation, understanding
community needs)
 Career path in aging or health
professions
California Council on Gerontology and
Geriatrics (CCGG)
PERSONALLY INTERESTED
Employed Community Member Seeking:
 Formal training in health promotion
and healthy aging
 Information and Resources for
personal use (caregiving resources,
healthy aging options for parents, or
self)
Campus and Surrounding Community
SHARP Website
California Council on Gerontology and
Geriatrics (CCGG)
Unemployed Community Member Seeking:
 Employment/Career
 Position working in the community
and/or health promotion and healthy
aging or career in health professions
 Skills & Experience to see what a new
career in aging.
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
Potential EBHP Job Opportunities
Settings:
 Senior Centers
 Hospitals / Health Clinics / HMOs
 Non-profit organizations
 Faith Based Organizations
 Senior Housing Facilities
 Independently employed
Positions Available:
 EBHP Coordinator
 Project Manager
 Administrator
 CDSMP or Healthier Living Course
Leader
 Resident Service Coordinator
 Activities Coordinator
 Community Health Worker
 Health Program Manager
Potential Aging Career Pathways
Settings:
Same setting as for EBHP Job opportunities
as well as:
 Academia/Educational Institutions
 Governmental Agencies (National, State,
County, City level)
 Industry or For-Profit Business
Positions Working with Older Adults:
 Direct Care: Physicians, nurses, social
workers, center directors
 Counseling: Social workers, therapists,
care coordinators
 Planning and Investments: Bankers,
businesses, government
 Health promotion / program
development: Public health
practitioners, activities coordinators
Positions Working for or on behalf of
Older Adults:
 Research
 Planning, administering and evaluating
community based services and service
delivery systems
 Education
 Policy / Advocacy
 Law (e.g. Elder Law, Ombudsman)
 Product design and development
 Consulting with businesses, industry,
and labor regarding older workers and
consumers.
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp
RESOURCES
1. Alliance for Aging Research. (2002). Medical never-never land: Ten reasons why America is
not ready for the coming age boom. Washington, D.C.: Alliance for Aging Research,
http://www.agingresearch.org.
2. Bureau of Health Professions (BHPR), Health Resources and Services Administration
(HRSA). (1996). A national agenda for geriatric education: White papers. Washington, DC:
U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (USDHHS).
3. Center for Health Workforce Studies. (2005). The impact of the aging population on the
health workforce in the US. Rensselaer, NY: HRSA, BHPR.
4. Coffman, J., & Spetz, J. (1999). Maintaining an adequate supply of RNs in California.
Image: The Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 31(4), 389-393.
5. Lee, J. S. (2002). Aging curriculum and research capacity in schools of social work: A
national survey. Educational Gerontology, 28, 805-815.
6. Poulos, S., & Nightingale, D. S. (1997). Aging Baby Boomers in a new workforce
development system (Rev. ed.). Retrieved July 23, 3009, from
http://www.doleta.gov/seniors/other_docs/aging_baby_boomers.doc
7. American Hospital Association. (May 2007). When I’m 64: How Boomers Will Change
Health Care.
8. National Council on Aging, Center for Healthy Aging. (2006). Using the Evidence Base to
Promote Healthy Aging. Retrieved May 4, 2011, from
http://www.healthyagingprograms.org/content.asp?sectionid=92&ElementID=306
9. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2009). Chronic Diseases: The Power to
Prevent, The Call to Control – At A Glance. Retrieved May 4, 2011, from
http://www.cdc.gov/chronicdisease/resources/publications/AAG/pdf/chronic.pdf
10. California HealthCare Foundation. (2006). Chronic Disease in California: Facts and
Figures. Retrieved May 4, 2011, from
http://www.chcf.org/~/media/Files/PDF/C/PDF%20ChronicDiseaseFactsFigures06.pdf
11. Partners in Care Foundation. (2011). Presentation at SHARP Certificate Faculty
Development Program.
12. Damron-Rodriguez, J. and Goodman, C. (2008) Aging Initiative Labor Force Survey I:
Public Services for Older Adults. Retrieved May 4, 2011, from
http://calswec.berkeley.edu/calSWEC/AI_LF_Survey1_PublicSvcs_OlderAdults_08.pdf
SHARP PARTNERS
College of the Canyons: www.canyons.edu
Santa Barbara City College: www.sbcc.edu
Partners in Care Foundation: www.picf.org
National Council on Aging: www.ncoa.org
Center For Healthy Aging: www.healthyagingprograms.org
California Geriatric Education Center: www.geronet.ucla.edu/cgec-overview
California Council on Gerontology and Geriatrics: www.ccgg.org
SHARP is funded by the U.S. Department of Education, Funds for the Improvement of Post Secondary
Education (FIPSE), Grant P116W090120
www.geronet.ucla.edu/sharp