By Stephen Smoot
Not long ago, a National Institute on Aging publication article highlighted the need for seniors to continue to make mobility a priority. It shared that mobility “is critical for functioning well and living independently.” The aging process does affect mobility, especially when seniors experience “changes in gait . . ., balance, and physical strength.”
Others, however, find that pain from problems such as arthritis or the sciatica nerve can also discourage seniors who might otherwise enjoy walking for exercise.
The “Walk With Ease” program, promoted by the Harrison County Senior Center, was established to encourage walking, even in those who have health problems serving as barriers. As a United States Department of Agriculture website explains, it “is a direct education program that is designed to promote education about successful physical activity for people with arthritis, arthritis self-management and walking safely and comfortably.”
“A simple six week walking program,” a release states, will ease participants “living with arthritis, joint pain, or other chronic conditions” to find ways to walk with comfort.
As the USDA shares, the program has three options:
Group: All 18 sessions are led by an in-person, Arthritis Foundation-certified leader.
Self-Directed: An individual uses the Walk With Ease Guidebook to complete the six-week program on his/her own.
Self-Directed Enhanced: A group of individuals begin and end the six-week program at the same time. A designated leader coordinates communication to ensure participants are organized and motivated to complete program. Detailed toolkit.
The program was developed for the USDA by the Arthritis Foundation and also conforms to its guidelines on health and safety. Techniques come from “evidence-based ways to stay active and manage joint pain” and are aimed at seniors who are most physically, socially, or economically vulnerable.
Harrison County Senior Center recommends participation “to enhance mobility, reduce pain, and improve quality of life.” A QR code shared in the image run with this story can help those interested in signing up or learning more about it.
