The Kansas Health Institute hosted a discussion on Thursday, Nov. 2, about how person-centered approaches can advance healthy aging in rural and frontier communities. The event included two engaging panel discussions focusing on the unique needs of older adults who wish to age in place within rural communities.
The first panel, which featured leaders from state government and organizations dedicated to serving older adults, explored how the current implementation of a person-centered approach can address challenges related to healthy aging in rural communities. Panelists included:
- Monte Coffman, Executive Director, Windsor Holdings, Inc., Coffeyville, Kansas
- Michele Heydon, M.A., Long Term Services and Supports Commissioner, Kansas Department for Aging and
Disability Services - Chrisy Khatib, Deputy Director of Adult Protective Services, Kansas Department for Children and Families
- Jessie Piper, Ph.D., Co-Bureau Director of Family Health, Kansas Department of Health and Environment
- Emilie Rains, Executive Director of Bluestem PACE, Bluestem Communities in McPherson, Kansas
Subsequently, leaders in aging and policymakers engaged in a discussion sharing their thoughts as well as insights on future opportunities. Panelists included:
- Scott Brunner, Deputy Secretary of Hospitals and Facilities, Kansas Department for Aging and Disability Services
- Jan Kimbrell, Kansas Silver Haired Legislature
- Senator Kristen O’Shea, Kansas State Senate
- Secretary Janet Stanek, Kansas Department of Health and Environment
A recording of the event is below.