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More Life to Live: Educating Older Adults about Healthy and Unhealthy Lifestyles
Investigators: Drs. Nancy J. Osgood (PI) and
Constance L Coogle (Co-PI)
Summary: Virginia Commonwealth University, through the Department of Gerontology and
the Virginia Center on Aging, with funding from the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities
(DSAAPD), Delaware Department of Health and Social Services developed and evaluated a unique statewide model education and
prevention program for older adults and service professionals in gambling, aging, health, mental health, and substance abuse
services. Disease prevention and health promotion through education were the main goals of the project, which provided
education and training about compulsive gambling, smoking, alcoholism, depression and suicide, healthy behaviors, and
wellness in late life.
Specific Aims: The specific aims of this project included:
1. Developing and disseminating informational materials on gambling, smoking, alcoholism,
depression, and suicide, as well as wellness and healthy behaviors, targeted toward elderly persons.
2. Developing and disseminating informational materials for service providers and health
professionals in the fields of gambling, aging, health, mental health, and substance abuse services.
More Life To Live
Free copies of the project products
"More Life To Live" is a 25-minute video/DVD that illustrates the connections between
gambling, smoking, drinking, depression, and suicidal ideation. Narrated by the protagonist, an older problem gambler, the
story illustrates how the process of change in addiction is predicated on the principles of behavioral substitution. Viewers
learn about the "protective factors" that decrease the risk of destructive behaviors in older adults.
The 60-page booklet, "More Life to Live! Avoiding and Overcoming Unhealthy Behaviors in
Seniors," teaches important concepts related to preventing and recognizing unhealthy behaviors, the impact of unhealthy
behaviors, and the promotion of healthy lifestyle choices. The first half of the booklet provides definition of specific
risky behaviors, myths and facts about the behaviors, associated signs and symptoms, as well as diagnostic scales, useful
clinical guidelines for assessment and intervention, treatment options, obstacles to treatment, and tips for prevention. The
second half identifies positive strategies for promoting active aging. It includes detailed information about the value of
healthy living, adequate nutrition, physical activity, stress management, lifelong learning, leisure activities, creative
arts, owning a pet, and the benefits of humor.
The 36-page booklet, "More Life to Live! Your Guide to Healthy Aging: Avoiding and Overcoming
Unhealthy Behaviors and Promoting Healthy Lifestyles," was designed to be used by older adults themselves. It serves as
self-study guide, a resource directory, and a motivational tool for engaging in healthy habits, hobbies, and lifestyles. The
first section of this booklet identifies and defines high-risk and potentially addictive behaviors. The second section
describes the benefits of healthy living and provides strategies for promoting healthy lifestyle options for older adults
by eating better, staying active, and engaging in a variety of health sustaining activities.
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