A Health promotion topic in greater detail. Discuss how your health promotion topic is influenced by developmental variations such as age. 2. Address how you will apply the broad learning outcomes / course learning outcomes in your practice. ( These were listed in discussion post one and on your syllabus) . Please reach out to the professor if you need assistance. 500 word minimum Use of two peer reviewed articles ( minimum) correct APA
Title: Influence of Developmental Variations such as Age on Health Promotion
Introduction:
Health promotion is a key component of healthcare that aims to improve the overall well-being and quality of life of individuals. It involves the process of enabling people to take control of their health and make informed decisions to prevent disease and promote healthy lifestyles. However, the effectiveness of health promotion strategies can vary depending on the developmental variations, such as age, that individuals experience throughout their lives. This paper will discuss how age influences a specific health promotion topic and address the application of broad learning outcomes in practice.
Influence of Developmental Variations on a Health Promotion Topic:
One health promotion topic that can be influenced by developmental variations is physical activity. Physical activity plays a vital role in maintaining good health, preventing chronic diseases, and promoting overall well-being. However, the amount and type of physical activity relevant to an individual’s age group can differ significantly.
In early childhood, physical activity primarily focuses on promoting gross motor skills, coordination, and active play. Preschool-aged children should engage in at least three hours of active play each day, which can include running, jumping, and playing organized games (Australian Government, 2017). As children enter school age, physical activity becomes more structured, with recommendations of at least one hour of moderate to vigorous activity daily (World Health Organization, 2010). Activities at this stage may include organized sports, active school breaks, or participation in community programs.
During adolescence, physical activity patterns may change as young people often face competing demands from school, extracurricular activities, and social commitments. However, regular physical activity remains crucial in maintaining physical and mental health. The recommendation for adolescents is at least one hour of moderate to vigorous activity daily, which can be achieved through organized sports, active transportation, or recreational activities (World Health Organization, 2010).
In adulthood, physical activity requirements are more flexible but equally important. Adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days (World Health Organization, 2010). These activities can vary, including walking, cycling, swimming, or attending fitness classes.
Older adults also benefit greatly from regular physical activity. However, age-related physical changes, such as decreased muscle strength and flexibility, may require adaptations in the type and intensity of activities. It is recommended that older adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, focusing on activities that enhance balance and prevent falls, combined with muscle-strengthening exercises (American College of Sports Medicine, 2018).
Therefore, it is evident that the recommendations for physical activity and health promotion vary significantly across different stages of life. It is necessary to consider individual differences and developmental variations, such as age, when planning and implementing health promotion interventions to ensure their effectiveness and relevance.
Application of Broad Learning Outcomes in Practice:
The broad learning outcomes or course learning outcomes provided in the syllabus serve as a guide for integrating knowledge and skills acquired during the course into practice. These learning outcomes, when applied appropriately, can help to improve the effectiveness of health promotion interventions. Some examples of how the broad learning outcomes align with practice are discussed below:
1. Knowledge and Understanding: One of the broad learning outcomes emphasizes acquiring in-depth knowledge and understanding of health promotion principles. Applying this outcome in practice involves comprehending various aspects of health promotion, including the influence of developmental variations on the target population. Such understanding enables practitioners to tailor interventions to the specific needs of individuals at different stages of development.
2. Critical Thinking and Analysis: Another broad learning outcome focuses on developing critical thinking skills to evaluate the effectiveness of health promotion strategies. Applying this outcome in practice involves critically analyzing the existing evidence and research related to health promotion and developmental variations. Through critical analysis, practitioners can identify gaps in knowledge and develop evidence-based interventions that are better suited to address the needs of different age groups.
3. Communication and Collaboration: Communication and collaboration skills are essential for effective health promotion practice. Applying this outcome involves establishing effective communication channels with individuals of different ages, cultural backgrounds, and developmental stages. This facilitates the delivery of health promotion messages and interventions tailored to the specific needs and preferences of each age group.
4. Ethical and Professional Practice: Health promotion practice requires adherence to ethical standards and professional guidelines. Applying this outcome involves ensuring that health promotion interventions address the rights, autonomy, and cultural values of individuals at different developmental stages. Practitioners must also respect confidentiality and privacy while providing age-appropriate information and support.
In conclusion, developmental variations such as age influence health promotion topics, including physical activity. Understanding and addressing these variations are crucial for effectively promoting and improving health across the lifespan. The application of broad learning outcomes in practice enhances the development and implementation of evidence-based interventions tailored to different age groups, leading to improved health outcomes.
