September 23, 2005 Minutes

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Indiana Inter-College Council on Aging
September 23, 2005

After introductions for new attendees, the discussion on an application for a Geriatric Education Center for Indiana was led by Kathy Segrist and Kathy Frank. The GEC application from Arizona is being used as an example of an application that received funding.

At this point in time, it is not clear when HRSA will release the RFP, but usually it is in the fall with a January due date. It was the consensus of the group that IICCA should move forward on putting together an application even though there may not be a lot of time. If this one should not get funded, then we would have a good base for the following year’s application.

The first task will be to gather the needs data – current data from a variety of sources to see what’s actually happening here in Indiana. Based on this, we would then need to determine the areas of expertise available and how it can be used to address the mandates of the RFP. The application will need to outline the ways in which we would be expanding what we are doing, not to pay for what we are currently doing. The evaluation will be a critical piece to include. A Statewide Needs Assessment is currently underway and includes both a consumer and a provider survey. Other specific data may be available from the Area Agencies on Aging. Department of Health may be another source of information – general health needs of an aging population. Reports that we would want to use should be no more than three years old. Other sources may be professional organizations, the Department of Education and the Health Professions Bureau (for licensing needs for continuing education). The Department of Workforce Development may also have some information on projected health needs.

Demographics of Indiana - look at:
• Population segments – 65, 75, and 85
• Poverty levels –impact on access to health care
• Infrastructure
• Population vs facilities – rural/urban
• Medically underserved areas – rural
• Medical trainees that will stay in the state – by discipline
• Current info from a variety of sources

Need to have visuals that are easy to read to present the information.
Indiana Division on Aging is concerned by the lack of providers within the state. An example given by Peri Rogowski is the lack of people qualified to do home modifications that would allow someone to stay in their home longer.

The question was raised as to whether everyone on the Council would want to be a part of the GEC application – if yes, then send Kathy Segrist information on your school, lead contact and what focus area that you would be providing expertise.

A rural focus for the Indiana application would be a plus.

Discussion on who would be the PI and/or co-directors of the project. PI needs to have 5 years educational experience and a demonstration of funded research in geriatrics. The lead person would be the fiscal agent for the consortium. GEC grants are up to $400,000, they are available for 5 years and are renewable. First year of the project could be for planning and development of programs – for very specific objectives – the “how” – to set infrastructure. We have to decide what deliverables that we want, and also describe how we would be sustaining the GEC (at least show some progress towards funding). Sources of funding would include in-kind.

Usual lead on this type of project is a college or university. The state would be a key member of the consortium. Both Ball State and IU are interested in being leads in the project. Purdue and University of Indianapolis also want to be involved. Discussion on whose name is on the face page for the grant application – person or an institution.

Ideas for GEC programs:
• Mental health for older adults – especially in underserved areas
• Creating interest in middle and high school students to work with older adults
• Attract well-trained professionals and faculty
• Continuing education programs – especially for those in small towns
• Cultivate internships and practicum – problem when facilities do not have the credential people necessary to supervise
• Service learning opportunities or class projects that would let students be involved with older adults
• Interdisciplinary team training (GITT/Hanford Foundation)

Lesa Huber volunteered two grad students to look for the needs data over the next two weeks. (by region, by profession – Dept of Health, IDA, Bureau of Health Professions). A matrix will be created listing the skills/expertise of both members of the IICCA and others we may need to bring on board.

The GEC application should include:
• Documented need
• Letters of support
• Vision of what we want to do
• The Council’s history

Next steps: Students will look for data

Members will create a list of their expertise and suggestions for other participants - rural health (Shari Gray), Hispanic population and niche programs – Send this info to Kathy Segrist at Ball State.

Everyone will bring their individual goals and objectives to the next meeting

Next meeting:
Friday, October 21st, 10:00am at Center for Aging & Community, 901 S. Shelby Street, Indianapolis.