Browsing by Author "O'Hanlon, Julia"
Now showing 1 - 20 of 29
Results Per Page
Sort Options
Item Addressing the Threat of COVID-19-Related Housing Instability and Displacement in Delaware(Center for Community Research and Service & Institute for Public Administration Joseph R. Biden, Jr. School of Policy and Public Administration University of Delaware, 2020-03-30) Metraux, Stephen; Rayl, Mimi; O'Hanlon, Julia; O'Neill, SeanIn this brief we assess how the economic toll from COVID-19 and the responses to this pandemic will increase housing instability and housing displacement in Delaware. This provides a basis for planning a response that would mitigate the harmful outcomes related to increased housing instability, evictions, foreclosures and homelessness.Item Aging in Community Opportunities for Delaware’s Senior Population: The Significance of Accessible Community Transportation Options(2014-11) O'Hanlon, JuliaAccess to affordable and reliable transportation for the elderly is a concern for many communities, especially in rural areas where service is practically nonexistent. As defined by the National Aging in Place Council (NAPC), aging in place (i.e., aging in community), is “the ability to continue to live in one’s home safely, independently, and comfortably, regardless of age, income, or ability level. It means living in a familiar environment, and being able to participate in family and other community activities (2014).” The World Health Organization (2007) notes that aging in place/community aims to reverse or lesson the decrease in functional capacity that occurs with age. As a comprehensive approach to staying in one’s community/home, aging in place involves a variety of issues facing senior citizens, including housing, finance, health, education, recreation, and transportation.Item Assessing the Needs of Delaware’s Older Drivers(2007-09-21T13:50:04Z) Dworsky, Bernard; O'Hanlon, Julia; Klepner, Richard; Catherine, Adam; Trick, JulieCurrent road designs should be reviewed to determine whether modifications are necessary to better accommodate Delaware’s older drivers. Possible modifications include making intersections more driver- and pedestrian-friendly and improving traffic signs and signal design. Additionally, comprehensive assessment, education, and outreach programs can assist individuals, families, and physicians facilitate discussions about driving and promote mobility and independence among older Delawareans. Like other states that are addressing this issue, Delaware should apply resources for such modifications and initiatives to areas that pose the greatest safety concerns. Chosen areas should be based on the state’s current and projected demographic trends as well as crash data. Better coordination and collaboration among state advocacy groups and agencies will also foster overall improved awareness and education for individuals and their families who are concerned about the potential risks associated with older drivers.Item Coordinated Public Transit–Human-Services Transportation Plan for Delaware(Institute for Public Administration, 2020-07-07) Scott, Marcia; O'Hanlon, Julia; Timmreck, Alexa; Littmann, Danielle; Matera, MadisonThis Coordinated Public Transit–Human Services Transportation Plan, or “Coordinated Plan,” for the State of Delaware was developed through a participatory planning process and serves as a strategic framework for addressing the state’s existing and future mobility needs. It is aligned with and conforms to the current federal framework focused on the need to enhance mobility for all transportation-disadvantaged populations (e.g., older adults, persons with disabilities, veterans, low-income individuals, non-drivers, and no-car households). Specifically, the plan responds to the Fixing America’s Surface Transportation (FAST) Act, which was enacted in 2015 and provides increased emphasis on advancing mobility management practices and projects, including those related to the Enhanced Mobility of Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities Program (herein referred to as the Section 5310 program).Item Delaware Environmental Scan: Delaware Youth Opportunities Initiative(2011-07-19) O'Hanlon, Julia; Miller, Julie; Clark, Amy; Ospanova, GauharIn partnership with the Delaware Center for Justice and Delaware State University, IPA’s key objective for the scan was to identify the state’s strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in resources and services currently available for the state’s youth aging out of foster care. Ultimately, the scan will provide a better understanding of the issues involved and help create appropriate strategies and action items that address the primary policy goals of the Delaware Youth Opportunities Initiative.Item Delaware’s Process for Projecting Demographic and Population Estimates– Overview, Evolution, and the Future Role of the Delaware Population Consortium(Institute for Public Administration, 2022-08) O'Hanlon, Julia; O'Neill, Sean; Prickett, LindsayThis policy brief was developed by IPA as part of its partnership with and funding from the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) Planning Division. Information provided is intended to inform key stakeholders—including state agency staff, local government leaders, and community organizations in Delaware—about the history, evolution, and applications of the Delaware Population Consortium work and annual projections. In addition to its infrastructure and transportation policy team, IPA recognizes contributions to the document made by our DelDOT partners, the University of Delaware’s Center for Applied Demography and Survey Research (CADSR), the Delaware Office of State Planning Coordination (OSPC), and others interviewed as part of IPA’s fiscal year 2022 infrastructure work plan.Item Demographics and Profiles of Delaware’s Elderly(Institute for Public Administration, 2005-05) Jacobson, Eric; O'Hanlon, Julia; Condliffe, Simon; Bennett, Carrie; Sloan, MicheleItem Evaluating the State of Mobility Management and Specialized Transportation Coordination in Delaware(2017-06) O'Hanlon, Julia; Scott, Marcia; Miller, Evan; Stump, JessicaAs Delaware’s transportation disadvantaged population grows, demands for accessible transportation and alternative mobility options are also likely to increase. The primary objectives of this project were to assist the Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC), an operating division of the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), in assessing current specialized transportation mobility management and coordination initiatives in Delaware, identifying key stakeholders and providers who might participate in resolving unmet needs, duplication of services, and improving service efficiencies, and providing recommendations to DTC on mobility management best practices that might support a sustainable and customer-driven mobility landscape here in Delaware. The provision of mobility options is a critical component in addressing the needs of all Delaware residents and specifically the transportation-disadvantaged population.Item Extended Learning Opportunities in Delaware(Institute for Public Administration, 2019-11) Kelly, Christopher G.; O'Hanlon, Julia; Sherretz, Kelly; Velez, JessicaAt the recommendation of the House Resolution 39 Statewide Afterschool Initiative Learning Task Force, the University of Delaware’s Institute for Public Administration (IPA) conducted a landscape analysis and needs assessment of extended learning opportunities in Delaware. In addition, the project team engaged with stakeholders in the field and conducted an extensive literature review.Item Green > Grey: Challenges, Opportunities, and Policy Implications for Delaware GreenInfrastructure Landscape(Institute for Public Administration, 2021-07-08) Barnes, Philip; O'Hanlon, Julia; Matera, MadisonBeginning in fiscal year 2021, the University of Delaware’s Institute for Public Administration (IPA), in partnership with the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), began a year-long work plan devoted to green infrastructure. Applied research and public service components included outreach to various stakeholders, facilitation of a virtual workshop, and the development of resources designed to provide information on the challenges, opportunities, policy implications, and best practices of green infrastructure approaches in Delaware. This brief summarizes policy implications for Delaware's green infrastructure landscape and highlights additional best practices.Item Health Policy Issue Brief 3 - Access to Healthy Foods in the Built Environment(2011-10) Jacobson, Eric; O'Hanlon, Julia; Clark, AmyWhile the United States boasts one of the most abundant food supplies in the world, disparities in access, affordability, and quality have continued to plague communities and neighborhoods throughout the country. With millions of Americans without access to healthy foods, the alarming rates of obesity and diet-related diseases will continue to increase. However, it has recently been demonstrated through promising programs and policies that the challenges to increasing access to healthy foods in underserved communities can be resolved. Delaware continues to be involved in the discussion surrounding this important issue and by utilizing the resources available in the online Toolkit (www.ipa.udel.edu/healthyDEtoolkit), those involved are provided the necessary tools to do so. It is hoped that continuing research on the issue will encourage local, state, and national attention and allow policymakers, community leaders, and advocates to explore solutions that address the role that access to healthy foods plays in promoting healthy economies, healthy communities, and healthy people.Item Healthy and Complete Communities in Delaware: The Walkability Assessment Tool(2016-01) O'Hanlon, Julia; Scott, Marcia; West, LexiThe Walkability Assessment Tool is designed to guide municipalities in evaluating the walkability of specific areas within their towns and cities and considering strategies and policies to improve local pedestrian networks. This assessment tool serves as an updated version to IPA’s original tool, developed and published in 2010. The updated tool emphasizes the policy framework that supports walkability, provides hyperlinks to online resources, and prepares participants to engage in an interactive assessment process from pre- to post-walk activities. A video tutorial, which supplements this publication, has been produced to help participants be aware of what to look for during the in-field walkability audit. Preparation of this updated assessment tool builds upon the University of Delaware IPA’s Healthy Communities initiative, supported by the Delaware Division of Public Health (DDPS), and the Planning for Complete Communities in Delaware project, which is an ongoing collaboration between the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT) and IPA. IPA is especially appreciative of the continued support from DelDOT staff, especially former Assistant Planning Director Ralph Reeb. Julia O’Hanlon and Marcia Scott served as Principal Investigators/Project Managers for this project, and co-authored the document with Public Administration Fellow Alexis West. In addition to IPA’s online Delaware Complete Communities Planning Toolbox, this assessment tool will also be included as a component of IPA’s online Toolkit for a Healthy Delaware. The benefits of physical activity continue to gain national attention. The U.S. Surgeon General’s recent call to action emphasizes the need to improve access to safe and convenient places to walk and wheelchair roll. It also recognizes the importance of community design, planning, and public policy to facilitate improved built environments for more active lifestyles. Providing opportunities for all citizens to safely and easily traverse the pedestrian network to destinations of daily living is one significant way to promote physical activity and active transportation. I hope that Delaware local government officials and other stakeholders will use this assessment tool to build healthier, walkable, and complete communities.Item Healthy Communities: The Walkability Assessment Tool(2010-12-22) O'Hanlon, Julia; Scott, JacquelynAs indicated in a number of recent research studies and articles, an increase in moderate physical activity among Americans could substantially improve the nation’s public health. Given Delaware’s current obesity trends, it is important to keep the state’s residents active and engaged. Walking is one of the easiest and cheapest ways to stay physically fit. In addition to keeping residents physically active and healthy, community spaces that promote walking can draw people together safely and provide more opportunities for people of all ages and abilities to stay socially connected and engaged. Local areas with good pedestrian networks can also have substantial economic and environmental benefits to a local area.Item The Impact of Senior Centers and Geriatric Healthcare Policy(Institute for Public Administration, 2004-12) Jacobson, Eric; O'Hanlon, Julia; Bennett, Carrie; McCloskey, SarahItem Leading Tomorrow’s Senior Centers(Institute for Public Administration, 2009-07) Jacobson, Eric D.; O'Hanlon, Julia; Scott, JacquelynAmerican society has traditionally desired “quick fixes” such as prescription drugs to treat physical and mental health conditions, which may contribute to the one-third of older adults over the age of 65 who lead sedentary lifestyles. However, a growing body of research suggests that disease-prevention approaches and healthier behaviors can offer longer-term societal and economic benefits. Senior centers can enhance individuals’ health-behavior change through preventive approaches and high-quality programs. Given today’s fiscal environment, senior centers may be interested in learning more about economically savvy approaches to promoting healthy lifestyles through community-based programs and services known to prevent the onset of chronic conditions and risk of injury. The participation in health-promoting and disease-preventing programs will further assist older adults in overcoming barriers to mobility and transportation, maintaining independence, and achieving better overall health and well-being.Item Outcomes Report: Delaware Transportation Needs Assessment Survey(2019-01) Scott, Marcia; O'Hanlon, Julia; Metcalfe, Danielle; Timmreck, AlexaThis report details the results of the Transportation Needs Assessment Survey administered in 2018 by the Biden School of Public Policy and Administration's Institute for Public Administration (IPA) at the University of Delaware, on behalf of the Delaware Transit Corporation (DTC). The survey was designed to obtain input and data used in identifying public transit and human services transportation barriers, challenges, and gaps in Delaware. Information gathered from the survey responses will be used to develop the 2019 update of the Coordinated Public Transit–Human Services Transportation Plan for Delaware.Item Planning for Age-Friendly Communities: An Assessment of Two Sussex County Communities(Institute for Public Administration, 2019-10) O'Hanlon, JuliaBetween October 2017 and June 2018, a literature review was conducted and meetings with community leaders and stakeholders of two Sussex County communities were hosted to help identify the communities’ capacity to promote aging in place through aging-friendly criteria and domains endorsed by the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP), American Planning Association, Village to Village Network, and other nationally recognized organizations with interests in supporting and planning for communities’ increasing older adult populations.Item Public Outreach and Engagement Plan To Develop a Coordinated Public Transit — Human-Services Transportation Plan for Delaware(2017-12) O'Hanlon, Julia; Scott, Marcia; Suchanic, BetseyA public outreach and engagement plan for the Delaware Department of Transportation and the Delaware Transit Corporation to meet with FTA requirements that coordinated plans be developed and approved through a participatory planning process with input from diverse stakeholders.Item Quality of Life Indicators Related to Sussex County’s Growing Senior Population: Preliminary Needs Assessment and Environment Scan(2016-07) O'Hanlon, Julia; Kline, AngelaStatewide senior population trends, particularly the projected growth in the percentage of older adults in more rural areas of Delaware, are becoming increasingly important for local officials, social service organizations, and community stakeholder groups to consider. As the area’s senior population increases over the next decade, demands for social services, affordable housing, and accessible transportation are also likely to increase. Based on previous transportation-related projects and work with senior centers in Sussex County, Delaware, the Institute for Public Administration (IPA) conducted a preliminary needs assessment and environmental scan that will help inform future statewide research and educational activities and provide considerations for local officials, nonprofits, and community groups regarding the need for greater senior-friendly environments within their communities— considerations that could shape longer-term, county-wide planning and support the needs of the area’s older adult population and their opportunity to age in community. To obtain additional information about the needs and interests of Sussex Countians and their opportunities for aging in community, IPA project manager Julia O’Hanlon, working with doctoral student Angela Kline, developed a literature review and research outline, conducted semi-structured interviews with community stakeholders, and coordinated with the Sussex County Advisory Committee on Aging & Adults with Physical Disabilities on polling participants at the LIVE Conference in October. This project was conducted in cooperation with and support from the University of Delaware’s Sustainable Coastal Communities Initiative (SCCI). SCCI Program Coordinator Edward Lewandowski and IPA Policy Scientist Martin Wollaston served as senior advisors for this work. This project builds on IPA’s statewide work related to mobility, aging, transportation, land use, and complete communities. Additionally, it extends work conducted with SCCI in 2014 on the Sussex County Transportation Cooperative, now referred to as ITNSouthernDelaware, and helps inform other IPA project work with state agencies such as the Delaware Department of Transportation (DelDOT), Department of Health and Social Services (DHSS), and the Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC). In response to SCCI’s request for proposals, IPA developed a project proposal in the spring of 2015 to conduct a preliminary needs assessment and environmental scan to identify preliminary strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in resources for senior citizens in Sussex County. This assessment should be considered one small piece of a larger and increasingly complex policy issue related to the state’s overall influx of seniors to its coastal and rural areas. Additionally, this document serves as the baseline for future research and work in this area. IPA’s objective for this project was to identify preliminary strengths, weaknesses, and gaps in resources for senior citizens in Sussex County. This preliminary needs assessment and environmental scan is the first step in identifying future research activities and informing appropriate strategies to prepare for the changes that Sussex County is currently experiencing. Information obtained for this assessment summary derived from a literature review of key quality of life indicators, as well as through informal interviews with community stakeholders, informal polling, and LIVE Conference (October 2015) participation evaluations. This assessment summary document is categorized into five primary content areas including quality of life indicators: 1. Demographics 2. Community Models 3. Transportation and Mobility 4. Sussex County Community-Based Resources 5. Strategies for Future OpportunitiesItem The Role of Senior Centers in Mitigating Alzheimer's and Other Forms of Dementia(Institute for Public Administration, 2019-01) O'Hanlon, Julia; Jacobson, Eric D.; Perillo, KellyDementia, a common term associated with memory loss, causes problems with an individual’s memory, thinking, and behavior to the point where it affects day-to-day life and social functioning. Alzheimer’s, the most common and familiar form of dementia, is becoming more prevalent among the older adult population. Of all individuals diagnosed with dementia in the United States, Alzheimer’s accounts for sixty to eighty percent of the cases. Understanding the severity and impact of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia on older adults and their family members is crucial for policy makers, stakeholders, supportive services, and medical professionals due to the implications on national, state, and local governments, health and social services, nonprofits, and communities. To address national demographic trends, it is important to understand the appropriate programs and services necessary to prevent, treat, and evaluate Alzheimer’s, as well as the large impact the disease has on U.S. healthcare costs. With definitive ways to address prevention and a cure, it is vital that this disease become better known.