According to the Centers for Disease Control, approximately 37% of adults over the age of 65 are inactive.  This increases as individuals age with approximately 42% of adults age 75 – 84 and approximately 57% of adults age 85 and older who are inactive.  Physical inactivity leads to muscle weakness, as well as loss of flexibility and balance.  Research shows that older adults who practice strength building exercises can increase muscle strength.  Increased muscle strength leads to increased mobility and the ability to carry out daily tasks.  Physical activity improves the physical, emotional, and mental health of individuals.

To encourage physical activity among senior adults, the Caldwell County Family & Consumer Sciences Agent offered Bingocize, a 10-week program that combines the game of bingo with exercise and nutrition education, at the George Coon Public Library.  Participants began with short periods of light chair exercises that gradually increased in time and difficulty throughout the program.  At the end of the program, all participants stated that they intended to move more and use the exercises they learned.  One participant said, “Bingocize made movement fun and I made friends!”  Another participant stated, “I loved learning easy exercises I can do at home without expensive equipment.”