Proposed is a model of primary care for older adults with chronic health conditions
that focuses on active engagement in health care. The Healthy Ageing Model is anchored in
established theory on motivation and health behaviour change. The model draws on empirical
and applied clinical underpinnings in such diverse areas as health promotion and education,
treatment of addictions or obesity, management of chronic diseases, goal-setting, and coaching
techniques. The conceptual foundation for the Healthy Ageing Model is described first, followed
by a brief description of the key characteristics of the model. In conclusion, suggestions are
offered for the clinical application and for further developing the model.
© 2010 Royal College of Nursing, Australia. Published by Elsevier Australia (a division of Reed
International Books Australia Pty Ltd). All rights reserved.
Theoretical and practice background
It is well established that the health of older adults,
especially those with chronic health conditions, is heav-
∗ Corresponding author. Tel.: +1 734 764 7185;
fax: +1 734 764 7186.
E-mail addresses: potempa@umich.edu (K.M. Potempa),
butterwo@comcast.