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To achieve this objective, priority recommendations include
provision of adequate funding for state and local recreational
sites and facilities, developing model policies to increase
access to public facilities for physical activity, and
increasing the number of worksites that have policies
that enhance physical activity opportunities.
The description below illustrates what organizations and
communities are doing to support priority recommendations
to increase access to free or low cost recreational opportunities.
In the summer of 2003, the Healthy Aging Partnership -
with special contributions from AARP and Seattle Parks
& Recreation - sponsored Sound Steps, a program
to promote walking among older adults. Sound Steps
was implemented on a pilot basis at seven Seattle Parks
and Recreation Community Centers from June through August
of 2003.
In its first year, Sound Steps attracted 500 participants.
The goal of this free program was to encourage sedentary
older adults, age 50 and older, to take up walking for
better fitness and socialization. Sound Steps combined
group support, with the flexibility of walking when, where,
and with whom an individual chose. Group walks were scheduled
at the community centers, staffed by volunteers and Parks
& Recreation staff members. The program motivated walkers
through leadership, information, social engagement, and
incentives.
To evaluate Sound Steps, the University of Washington
Health Promotion Research Center, a HAP member organization,
collected qualitative and quantitative information from
the participants and program staff. The results of the
evaluation showed increased walking among the participants,
as well as health improvements, increased socialization,
exposure to Parks & Recreation programs and building a
sense of community in the neighborhoods.
Project partners include: Healthy Aging Partnership, Seattle
Parks & Recreation, American Association of Retired Persons
(AARP), University of Washington Health Promotion Research
Center, Public Health-Seattle & King County, Comprehensive
Health Education Foundation, and Seattle/King County Aging
& Disability Services.
For more information:
Julie Walwick
Health Promotion Research Center
University of Washington |
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