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Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu

Impacts

Contact Information

Craig Wood, Ph.D
Acting Associate Dean & Director
UK Cooperative Extension Service

S-107 Ag. Science Center North Lexington, KY 40546-0091

+1 (859) 257-4302

craig.wood@uky.edu




Fiscal Year:
Jul 1, 2024 - Jun 30, 2025


Success StoryKeys to Embracing Aging: Being Social



Keys to Embracing Aging: Being Social

Author: Jill Harris

Planning Unit: Todd County CES

Major Program: Keys to Embracing Aging

Plan of Work: Improving Economic and Social Well-Being of Individuals and Families

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

Engaging and maintaining meaningful social activities and relationships throughout the lifespan is vital to overall to health and well-being. Engaged people are often healthier, happier, less depressed and demonstrate enhanced brain vitality (NIA, 2009; Alzheimer’s Association, 2011; Park, 2009). They also contribute to stronger families and communities.

Todd County presented Keys to Embracing Aging: Social Activity.  5 completed post lesson evaluations.  As a result of the program, 5 participants reported improved understanding regarding the impact that meaningful social activity has on overall health and well-being. 4 reported intentions to implement at least one strategy to improve their engagement in meaningful social activity.  


Specifically, 5 participants reported that they learned ways in which social activity promotes independence, 5 longer and happier lives, 4 physical and mental health, and 5 decreased risk for depression.  


A valuable program, participants learned you have to make a conscious effort to be social.  To demonstrate behavior change regarding social activity, the program included a 30-day follow-up evaluation.  Of the 5 who were sent follow-up evaluations, 4 were returned.  3 reported that they implemented at least one strategy to increase their amount of meaningful social activity.  Specifically, participants reported that they: were more open to people and chose to spend time with different friends.






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