Introduction: In the US, ageing and disability public policies, programs, and service systems have historically separate origins, age-based
categorical eligibility, and distinct funding streams. This division creates barriers in serving persons ageing with disability
transitioning from disability to ageing service systems and for older adults obtaining independent living services in disability
systems.
Description of policy practice: Professional cross-network collaborations can bridge ageing and disability service networks. Barriers to cross-network collaborations
include competition for public funds, lack of professional cross-system knowledge, unfamiliarity with non-traditional consumer
groups, and limited organizational interest or administrative knowledge of how to build and maintain collaborative relationships.
Demonstrated successful collaborations and coalitions have strong leadership, organizational support, partners with shared
interests and goals, clear missions, and strong investment by professional staff and service system clients.
Conclusions: There is growing evidence that the work of crossing network lines is locally implemented and sustained. Large-scale government
mandates can help initiate this process.
Discussion: Service networks include governmental (public) and non-governmental (private) organizations. Collaboration is mainly voluntary,
but encouraged by: growth in home and community based care, demand for community integration by people with disabilities,
and the need for fiscal efficiency and demonstrated performance results in government spending.
Presentation slides available from: http://www.bridgingknowledge.net/Presentations/Keynote1_Putnam.pdf