Regular physical activity helps older adults maintain strength, mobility and cognitive health while reducing the risk of chronic disease. Still, 27.3% of adults in Malheur County report no leisure-time physical activity — a rate higher than the national average. Many older adults in the region face barriers such as pain, injury or chronic conditions that limit their ability to stay active.
Participants reported measurable health improvements — including better mobility, increased activity levels and reduced arthritis symptoms — as well as feeling safer and more connected to others in the community.
To address these challenges, Oregon State University Extension Service in Malheur County partnered with the Malheur Health Department to implement Walk With Ease and Better Bones & Balance, two evidence-based physical activity programs for older adults.
Walk With Ease, developed by the Arthritis Foundation, is designed to help participants build confidence, increase endurance, manage pain and improve overall well-being through guided and self-directed walking activities. Better Bones & Balance, developed at Oregon State, helps reduce the risk of falls and fractures with exercises that strengthen lower-body muscles and improve balance.
Over the past two years, OSU Extension faculty and staff launched multiple program cohorts, trained three local instructors and provided participants with education, motivation and a supportive group setting. More than 40 older adults have participated in Walk With Ease, with many continuing their progress through Better Bones & Balance.
Participants reported measurable health improvements — including better mobility, increased activity levels and reduced arthritis symptoms — as well as feeling safer and more connected to others in the community. As one participant shared, “Because of this program, I am now strong enough to get up off the ground by myself.”
By delivering accessible fitness programs in rural Oregon, OSU Extension helps older adults live healthier, more independent lives. These programs promote well-being while strengthening community resilience and connection.
