FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES
Barbara Ames
Nutrition, Health,
and Food Safety
Stay Strong, Stay Healthy is an evidence-based program based on scientific research conducted with middle-aged and older adults. Wildcat District Family and Consumer Sciences Agents have been offering this program for over a year now with great success.
During April, post-assessments and post-surveys from two classes (28 participants) graduated in Independence have once again demonstrated the value of the Stay Strong, Stay Healthy Program. Post assessment charts of everyone indicated a measure of physical improvement (some had large improvements) and comments from numerous participants mentioned that they have more strength in their legs and arms and better balance after the program. We also received many other positive statements. A few include:
-This program has improved my social life and is a great work-out. Barbara does a great job!!
-I enjoyed the program. I enjoyed the group of people. I enjoyed the instructor – she was excellent. After the program I am more flexible and have a better understanding of the need for this type of exercise. Really great program-very worthwhile!
-Barbara and “our group” all made it fun and always were helpful with us all. Barbara is a very positive person. The way we were taught to increase gradually over the eight weeks was Great! It has helped strengthen my muscles (upper and lower body) and helped improve my balance – very important to me.
-I noticed a difference in spring gardening as I had less back problems. That is great for me. I’m more prepared to do hours of work in the yard. My back and my hip are less painful. Barbara was wonderful and encouraging, and the class was fantastic. I would highly recommend it.
Grow Your Own Salsa
Many positive comments were contained on the program surveys completed by participants in Wildcat District’s “Grow Your Own Salsa” event at our Southeast Area Research and Extension Center. Agriculture Agent, Jeri Geren, led off with a discussion about preparing the soil for gardening including proper procedures for soils tests and how to use the information gained.
Horticulture Agent, Jacob Weber donned his sombrero and discussed growing techniques by showing a large array of tools and equipment he has purchased or created through the years to make gardening tasks easier and more efficient. He also showed slides of his own garden and compost trenches.
Stay Strong, Stay Healthy Continues To Improve Health and Well-Being
in Wildcat District
Food Tossed
Money Lost