Kentucky ranks in the top five states for obesity with 36% of the population (38% in Letcher County) being obese according to the CDC. The state also ranks in the top seven for physical inactivity with 32% of the population being inactive. Data shows that healthy eating habits and regular physical activity can help achieve and maintain good health and reduce chronic disease throughout life. Along with these concerns are an aging population, with Letcher County having 20.4% of its population over 65 years of age.

To address these issues, the Letcher County Extension Service has conducted programs such as Hiking for Health and Embracing Life as We Age. The two programs are geared towards encouraging regular physical activity and maintaining an active lifestyle throughout the lifespan. Specific topics on health were covered with each class, among which were sunscreen tips, health benefits of hiking, ten essentials for hiking, layering basics, etc. along with topically relevant UK Health Bulletins. The target audience focused on those 65 years or older and those who want to improve their general health and activity levels. The program was conducted by the ANR and FCS agents along with support from program assistants, representatives from EKU's Lilley Cornett Woods, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park, and Kingdom Come State Park.

Two hundred participants walked a total of 65 miles. One in four reported losing weight and everyone said that they learned the importance of staying physically active. Others spoke to the social and mental well-being of the program, with one stating, "I was reading in an AARP magazine that the two best ways to stay mentally healthy as you age are to stay physically active and socially connected. You all (the Letcher County Extension Service) are addressing both of these through the Hiking for Health Program." (Bobbie Dingus, 89 year old homemaker who regularly takes part in the program).