Improving physical activity options for seniors and persons with disabilities in a rural town: A community engagement project

The Montana Independent Living Project with the Montana Nutrition and Physical Activity, Disability and Health, and Assistive Technology Programs collaborated with the town of Three Forks, Montana to improve the Three Forks Community Trail System for seniors and persons with disabilities. The project involved community interviews, a technical assessment of the trail, and technical assistance activities. Five themes emerged from group interviews involving 20 seniors and persons with disabilities related to sensory, cognitive, communication, and mobility impairments: (1) positive aspects of physical activity; (2) factors limiting physical activity; (3) positive aspects of trail use; (4) barriers to trail use; and (5) suggestions for improving trails. Results were presented with relevant resources (e.g., U.S. Access Board Guidelines) to the mayor, city council and community members to increase understanding of accessibility issues and ways to improve the trail for seniors and persons with disabilities. Community partners have used results to develop marketing efforts promoting physical activity and trail usage among seniors and persons with disabilities. Additionally, Three Forks city officials have presented project findings to other mayors and health professionals at meetings and at a statewide conference. Importantly, the city of Three Forks has identified priorities for trail improvement-- installation of truncated domes, retrofit the trail in five places (e.g., reduce slope), and build accessible parking—and have applied for funding for these projects. The Montana Independent Living Project will provide technical assistance on these projects and on programming efforts to better engage persons with disabilities in physical activity through trail usage.