Steps to Health: Older Adult Program
The 2010-2011 Steps to Health Older Adult program serves older adults in 26 congregate nutrition sites across 19 counties in North Carolina.
The current curriculum, "Food as the Fountain of Health," consists of 10 sessions designed to educate and inspire older adults to purchase and consume more fruits and vegetables. The first five sessions emphasize the nutritional benefits of fruits and vegetables, while sessions six through ten emphasize how to get the most out of each fruit and vegetable purchase from a financial and food preservation perspective. Hands-on activities, games, and physical activity are incorporated into each session. Each 30-45 minute session also includes a taste test of a variety of fruits and vegetables. Throughout the program, older adults receive informational materials and conduct weekly challenges. In addition, participants are able to set goals using a personal action plan.
At the completion of the program, participants are awarded a certificate of participation. Evaluation of the program is conducted via pre and post knowledge and behavior surveys.
The curriculum was developed by Nicolle Miller, MS-MPH, RD Jacquelyn McClelland, Ph.D. and Carolyn Bird, Ph.D. with food preservation expertise provided by Benjamin Chapman, Ph.D. and farmers market information provided by Audrey Edmisten, MPH, RD, LDN.
For more information about the Steps to Health Older Adult program, Contact the Adult Nutrition Associate: Nicolle Miller.
