Big Horn County Family and Consumer Science areas focus on helping residents become and stay healthy

Published: 2019
By Holly Miner

Dining with Diabetes focuses on helping individuals manage diabetes through diet, medication and exercise, and was brought to Big Horn County as a pilot program in 2019. The initial class included 16 participants and resulted in the formation of a Diabetic Support Group. The group meets quarterly to enjoy a diabetic-friendly meal, network with other diabetics and listen to guest speakers. Since the original class in January 2019, another class was held in the fall and plans are underway for more classes in 2020. Results showed 100% of participants learned to read and understand food labels, to modify or substitute ingredients for making healthier meals, and to make meals align with MyPlate guidelines. Participants also reported positive behavior trends towards eating more fruits and vegetables, drinking less sugary drinks, and cooking more at home. Participants reported leaving the course feeling they can make a positive impact on themselves or others and 73% feel confident they could take the knowledge learned from the class and use it to stay in control of their own diabetes or help someone else. StrongPeople Strength Training in Big Horn County continues to grow as part of a first ever Nationwide Random Control Trial. Positive impacts were reported by 55 participants in four areas: • Physically, 90% of participants showed increased strength, balance, stamina, and the ability to move freely and easily. • Socially, 82% of participants increased community ties. • Mentally, 55% of participants reported a decrease in both stress and anxiety. • 61% reported significant increases in sleep, with 53% reporting decreased chronic pain. And as a testament to the benefits of the program, 98% intend to engage in similar exercise routines outside of StrongPeople Strength Training, while 88% intend to maintain friendships made during the program.