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ICAA online directory of successful programs for older adults

Translating the dimensions of wellness into everyday practice

Definitions

Best practices. This term describes programs that have demonstrated over time that they achieve the desired results. They are the “best” for the situation where they are used and may or may not apply to other situations. The term best practices is commonly used in the business world as part of continuous process improvement. In the Directory, the term best practices is used to indicate programs that are successful but do not have a research study associated with them.

Evidence-based. These programs are based on the results of a research study. Once the study is completed satisfactorily, the program is disseminated into the community. Often an evidence-based program includes manuals, web-based support and training to teach you how to offer the program based on the program protocols.

Promising practices. Organizations may choose to use the term promising practices to describe programs that are doing well in their situation. The term “promising” is used because it is unlikely you can say that a program that does well in one situation will also do well in another situation. In the Directory, promising practices are included as best practices.

Successful program. Successful programs meet the program goals, e.g., changing a health behavior, improving computer skills or improving physical fitness; attract the targeted number of participants; and have a track record because they have been offered multiple times or over time.