Plenary Sessions

Community Water Fluoridation: What Has Been, What Is, and What May Be Next
Crystal Manners, DDS, State Dental Director, Tennessee Department of Health

Fluoride occurs naturally in water sources such as rivers, lakes and oceans and is nature’s tooth cavity fighter. Public water systems in the U.S. began the practice of water fluoridation 80 years ago and the first city in Tennessee to begin fluoridating, Milan, started in 1951. In 1999, the CDC named community water fluoridation one of the top 10 greatest public health achievements of the 20th century. When factoring in the topical fluoride products available today, community water fluoridation still provides an additional oral health benefit of 25% to both children and adults. While community water fluoridation is a long-standing public health practice, there are increasing numbers of large-scale discussions comprised of a variety of perspectives concerning its benefits and safety. These discussions offer many new opportunities to share evidence-based information and build rapport and partnerships with external stakeholders in the communities across Tennessee. This session will cover the history, current landscape and what may be next for the practice of community water fluoridation.      

 
Cultivating Connections: Strategies to Reduce Loneliness and Isolation Among Rural Older Adults
Jodi L. Southerland, DrPH, East Tennessee State University, Tyler Wright, MPH, TDH Regional Health Council Coordinator, and Kayla Dodson, MPH, Mooresburg Community Association

Social isolation and loneliness have become a public health epidemic, particularly in rural communities, where geographic  barriers and limited resources increase the risk for older adults. Strategies aimed at addressing this issue are critical for supporting healthy aging across the lifespan. This session will explore findings from a community needs assessment aimed at engaging rural older adults in discussions about their needs and preferences for strategies to combat loneliness and isolation. We will also highlight the significant efforts of a rural senior center that has dedicated the past 24 years to fostering social connections for older adults. Additionally, we will discuss the efforts of our local health council that currently has a priority focusing on the needs of older adults. Attendees will gain valuable insights into the importance of social connections and leave equipped with simple yet effective strategies to promote social engagement within their communities. Join us to deepen your understanding of how targeted community efforts can make a significant impact in the lives of older adults. 

 Link to Descriptions of Pre-conference Workshops