Healthy aging

Healthy aging is essential for maintaining independence, well-being and quality of life as people grow older, and it benefits not only individuals but also their families and communities. Cooperative Extension programs play a vital role in supporting this process by offering research-based education, practical skills and community-centered resources. These resources help adults stay active, socially connected and informed about nutrition, chronic disease prevention, financial wellness and caregiving.

Through workshops, health screenings, evidence-based curricula and partnerships with local organizations, Extension empowers older adults to make informed choices that enhance their physical, mental and social health — ultimately helping them thrive throughout the aging experience. These programs demonstrate the effectiveness of Extension initiatives in promoting healthier communities and addressing critical public health challenges. 

Here are a few examples of that work:

• In Michigan, 78 Tai Chi classes served 1,367 participants with a focus on arthritis, fall prevention, better sleep and diabetes. Participants reported significant improvements in physical function, sleep and emotional resilience.
  Michigan State University Extension. Supported by USDA competitive funds. See full statement.

• A line dancing program in North Carolina is helping redefine retirement through fitness and community programming, in partnership with the local parks and recreation department.
  North Carolina A&T Cooperative Extension Program. Supported by 1890 Extension capacity funds. See full statement.

• The Master Gardener Program improves the health and well-being of California residents by fostering increased outdoor activity, healthier diets and access to green spaces. Of the workshop participants, 66% reported spending more time outdoors — a behavior linked to reduced stress, improved mental health and increased physical activity, which can help combat obesity and related health conditions.
  University of California Cooperative Extension. Supported by state appropriations. See full statement.

StrongPeople strength training

The StrongPeople strength training program provides residents ages 55 and up with an evidence-based physical activity program in a structured, supportive environment. The health benefits resulting from weight training are essential for seniors, in particular for increasing balance and decreasing falls. Alaska is training new instructors in communities across the state as well as offering classes to ensure seniors are able to access safe and reliable programs that increase health and extend independence. In Montana, participation in these classes yielded improvement across a variety of health domains — physical, social and emotional. A community with more physically active individuals who report higher mental health outcomes and stronger social ties makes for a healthier community overall.

University of Alaska Fairbanks Cooperative Extension Service. Supported by Smith-Lever (3b&c) capacity funds. See full statement. MSU Extension. Supported by state appropriations & county funding. See full statement.