Free Webinar—Navigating Rural Realities: Addressing Substance Use and Aging in Agricultural Communities
Thursday, February 22, 2024 · 1–2 pm
Virtual
The AgriSafe Network is hosting an insightful presentation that delves into the unique challenges faced by aging individuals in rural agricultural communities, where the intersection of substance use and the aging process pose complex problems. The webinar will examine the social, economic, and healthcare factors that contribute to substance use among older adults in the agricultural sector.
The specific nuances of rural life that impact substance use patterns will be explored, from the isolation often experienced by farmers to the stressors associated with unpredictable agricultural cycles. We will explore the impact of these factors on mental health and coping mechanisms, leading to a deeper understanding of the prevalence of substance use among the aging population in rural areas. We will also examine interventions and innovative approaches that have proven effective in mitigating substance use issues among the aging population in rural settings. Whether you are a healthcare professional, community leader, or someone interested in the well-being of rural communities, this presentation will provide valuable insights and practical strategies for addressing substance use and promoting healthy aging in the unique context of agricultural life.
Intended Audience: Rural medical and mental health providers, community providers, community leaders anyone who works in rural areas
Objectives: At the end of this webinar participants will...
Have an increased awareness of the unique challenges faced by aging individuals in rural agricultural communities that contribute to substance use.
Understand the factors that contribute to substance use in the aging agricultural population.
Be able to identify and use common interventions to address substance use in rural populations.
Register here: https://us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_TFng79ReTtyUtmnrmRrnfw#/registration
For more information, contact James (Tony) Edwards at 804-720-2588 or jtedwards@vsu.edu.
If you are a person with a disability and desire any assistive devices, services or other accommodations to participate in this activity, please contact the Small Farm Outreach Program office at smallfarm@vsu.edu or call (804) 524-3292 / TDD (800) 828-1120 during business hours of 8 am. and 5 p.m. to discuss accommodations five days prior to the event.
Virginia Cooperative Extension is a partnership of Virginia Tech, Virginia State University, the U.S. Department of Agriculture, and local governments. Its programs and employment are open to all, regardless of age, color, disability, gender, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, political affiliation, race, religion, sexual orientation, genetic information, military status, or any other basis protected by law.