NATCHITOCHES – The School of Kinesiology at Northwestern State University has been awarded a $182,009 Healthy Eating, Active Living (HEAL) Program grant from The Rapides Foundation to implement a comprehensive community initiative designed to expand access to nutrition education and physical activities for older adults in Natchitoches Parish and surrounding communities.
The grant, to be implemented over the next three years, will support the development and implementation of an evidence-based nutrition and physical activity program focused on helping older adults live healthier, more active and more independent lives.
“Our mission is to improve the health and well-being of the communities we serve through education, research and community engagement,” said Dr. Tara Tietjen-Smith, director of the School of Kinesiology and grant project director. “We are incredibly grateful to The Rapides Foundation for investing in this important initiative. This grant will allow us to provide meaningful programs that promote healthy eating and active living to give older adults opportunities for physical activity, nutrition education and social engagement within their communities.”
Tietjen-Smith said the HEAL grant will be utilized to increase access to healthy foods, nutrition information and opportunities to participate in physical activities. The grant proposal includes student-led nutrition classes, grocery shopping trips, cooking classes, strength and mobility classes, screenings and health assessments. Engaging students in planning and executing programs will give them practical experience for future careers in health and fitness, she said.
The initiative won’t be limited to the NSU campus.
“NSU has an excellent working relationship with the city of Natchitoches and partners on several endeavors,” Tietjen-Smith said. “The city has been working toward a master plan to increase bicycle and pedestrian avenues, as well as offering services to older adults in the community through the Natchitoches Council on Aging. Many individuals use the campus to walk for exercise, but walking paths need to be extended, repaired and improved for the safety of older adults.”
By combining regular physical activity with hands-on nutrition education, the initiative seeks to empower older adults with the tools they need to make lasting lifestyle changes, Tietjen-Smith said.
“Faculty, students and community partners will work together to provide accessible programming that supports healthy aging across the region,” she said. “As Louisiana’s population continues to age, programs that encourage physical activity, healthy nutrition and fall prevention have become increasingly important. By expanding access to these resources, we hope to enhance the quality of life for older adults while fostering healthier communities throughout central Louisiana.”
For more information about the program or opportunities to participate, contact the Northwestern State University School of Kinesiology at nsu.la/kinesiology.