Increasing self-efficacy and meeting the physical activity needs of community older adults through a community-based learning project.

Community-based learning (CBL) best serves students and community members when organizers reflect on the needs, concerns, and intentions of society. Worldwide, an area of focus within communities is their rapid expansion of older adults (OA) and a general increased population age. Within the U.S. it is estimated that a quarter of the population will be 65 or older by 2060. This concern is mirrored in the goals of government and professional organizations. For instance, some goals of Healthy People 2030 are to reduce the risk of diabetes, osteoporosis and fall-related injuries in OA. Increasing physical activity (PA) among OA is a key strategy to prevent chronic disease, sudden fall injuries and improve quality of life. A central learning outcome of health science and exercise science (HES) undergraduate curricula is teaching students how to help individuals combat sedentary lifestyles by increasing their PA. CBL is recognized as a pedagogical method for students to engage with the community and practice hands-on learning. This article describes how a 10-year CBL partnership between HES faculty and a community organization serving OA was developed for an undergraduate HES program and evolved to support curricular and community needs.