Better Choices

Oldham County is ranked highest for health and wealth in Kentucky. Unfortunately, there is a high rate of substance abuse. Binge drinking and opioid usage have greatly increased in the past few years. Currently, Oldham County has an alarming rate for binge drinking that is 3 % above the state average. Drug Court, in Oldham County, is dedicated to prevention of recidivism of residents by providing rehabilitation to substance abusers. The Oldham County FCS Agent, in collaboration with Drug Court, provided Better Choices programs that encouraged healthy eating, cooking, and daily exercise. The agent demonstrated easy, economical recipes that emphasized the “MyPlate” recommendations.  Participants received pedometers and educational materials for meal planning, food security, and cooking skills. The 25 participants in the court ordered program all planned to reduce their serving sizes, cook and eat at home more often, and exercise daily.  The participant supervisor also reported that several participants indicated that they had used the recipes the very next day after the programs.