Iowa State University Extension

Problem:
A residential care facility in Guthrie County contacted the county office for a program that would benefit both staff and their consumers. The consumers live in a facilty that provides meals, but does have options for snacks and special occasions. Some are lower functioning, but independent in lifestyle choices. They also wanted a program to "kick off" Lighten Up Iowa for their teams.

Response:
The nutrition and health field specialist, using Team Nutrition posters and handout materials from "Portion Distortion" and Iowa State University Extension,  delivered a program for both consumers and staff.

Impact:
"Thanks so much for the information. I noticed several of the consumers looking at the posters that you had given to me. I have them up in the dining room area. I was happy with the level of participation of a few of our diabetic people who are normally not very active in participating in groups. You have a way of getting them to talk and participate. We all felt that your information was presented in a way that lower functioning individuals could easily understand it and our higher functioning people weren’t bored to death either! The level I guess I am saying was just right for our diverse clientele. We are kind of in a slump right now with the weight loss, but the weather is definitely a factor. I have been walking outside the last couple of nights, so hope that spring is soon on it’s way! Thanks again for the nice presentation!" shared by Jennifer at the conclusion of the program.   

A show of hands at the end of the program indicated that most participants had learned something new and were willing to adopt a change.

Contact:
Barb Fuller
Union County Extension
105 W Adams, Ste A
Creston, IA 50801
641-322-5236
bfuller@iastate.edu