Health Promotion with Vulnerable Population Groups

Abstract

Vulnerable population groups often have limited access to preventive and health promotion services. Marginalized population groups may think of healthcare in terms of negative experiences that emphasize deficiencies rather than proactive health behaviors. Members of vulnerable populations are more likely to learn and practice healthy behaviors when the concepts are introduced in stages and when participation of individuals is sought. Integration of behavioral change strategies that promote wellness are based on readiness and include opportunities to practice healthy behaviors in comfortable settings. This article describes the development and outcomes of three health promotion programs that served individuals representing vulnerable population groups. The health promotion programs utilized principles of engagement, partnership, and assessment of stages of change to improve the understanding of both health and self-care. The programs provided opportunities for nursing faculty and nursing students to engage in a collaborative process that utilizes readiness-to-change skills and involves community population groups in self-care activities.