It sounds like her doctors may have gotten her to exercise to loose some weight and strengthen her system in preparation for a possible knee or hip replacement.
Or maybe even a gastric bypass?
Both of those situations are close to me as a family member and a friend had to do this. But I doubt the doctors wanted her in her health condition to be off on nature trails alone.
I sounds like she was trying to get in better shape to me. Bless her heart! 
I'm praying she is safe and warm and found quickly. can't believe they are suspending the official search!
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