At the Shelby County Senior Citizens Center, many older adults were facing health challenges linked to poor nutrition, limited physical activity, and a lack of knowledge about how to make healthier choices. With chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and obesity on the rise, there was a growing need for educational programming to equip seniors with the tools and knowledge they needed to improve their health. Many participants were also struggling with understanding food labels and often opted for processed foods due to convenience or limited cooking knowledge. 

In response to these challenges, a monthly series of lessons was developed to address these issues. The lessons focused on nutrition, healthy eating habits, reading food labels, and incorporating easy, healthy recipes into daily routines. Each lesson included practical demonstrations, hands-on activities, and group discussions to engage the seniors and make the information relatable. The program reached a total of 15 seniors, ranging in age from 62 to 87, many of whom were managing chronic health conditions and had limited access to resources or health education. 

As a result of the program, participants showed measurable improvements in both knowledge and behavior. Pre- and post-program surveys indicated a 40% increase in participants' ability to identify healthier food options by reading labels, and 35% reported incorporating more physical activity into their routines. Additionally, over half of the group began trying the easy, healthy recipes shared during the lessons, with several participants expressing newfound confidence in cooking at home. By the end of the program, there was a noticeable shift toward healthier food choices, more active lifestyles, and a sense of empowerment in taking control of personal health. This success not only improved individual well-being but also fostered a sense of community and support, as participants shared their progress and tips with one another.