Virtual programs support healthy lifestyles

Programs that support healthy lifestyles, including nutrition, physical activity and mental health, provide critical education, support and resources for many residents. COVID-19 forced programs online and the Land-grant University System continues offering online options to positively impact residents and support their healthy lifestyles. Virtual programs offer greater flexibility for participants, allowing more to engage in and benefit from the resources available.

Here are a few examples of that work:

• A Family and Consumer Science team in Georgia produces the FACS of Life video podcast that provides research-based information about chronic disease, nutrition and societal detriments of health. The video podcast targets 18- to 40-year-olds and is promoted digitally and on social media.
  _{University of Georgia, project supported by county funding and state appropriations. See full statement.}
  
  
• An Extension team from Illinois developed the 8 Dimensions of Wellness email series with 354 participants. It provides support for individuals to increase their ability to focus on multiple dimensions of wellness in their daily lives, thereby modifying their risks for chronic disease and mental health concerns. More than 60% of participants incorporated skills and activities from the emails into their daily lives.
  _{University of Illinois, project supported by county funding and state appropriations. See full statement.}

Addressing Food, Family, Money and Health

Many factors can negatively impact a healthy lifestyle. Extension educators in Indiana develop programs in response to community needs, helping them spend smart, eat right and live well. Virtual and in-person programs served 4,833 residents, with 94% reporting they would improve their life because of the program and stating they would share what they learned with others.
_{Purdue University; project supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) funds. See full statement.}