Bingocize® was created by Dr. Jason Crandall, Co-Director/Co-Founder at the WKU Center for Applied Science in Health & Aging. He created the socially engaging group-based game that combines health education and exercise in the format of BINGO. Dr. Crandall and his research team have tested the program and demonstrated that over 90% of older adults who played two times a week for 10 weeks significantly improved physical, social and mental health. Dr. Crandall trained 57 FCS Agents on November 7, 2022 to pilot a new unit that combines Bingo, exercise, and vaccine/lifestyle. The goal of the new unit is to promote health equity and Covid immunizations in underserved population across Kentucky using the Bingocize® platform. The “Covid-19 Project” is expected to increase the likelihood of Covid-19 protective behaviors. Agents involved in the project were expected to complete an online training, recruit a minimum of 10 participants, complete a fidelity check, administer pre/post workshop assessments, and teach the Covid-19 2x a week for 6 weeks.  

To help participants learn and use health information focused on behavior related to health and protective behaviors, the FCS Agent in Pendleton County taught Covid-19 Bingocize® to 15 participants twice a week for 6 weeks. Of these participants, 15 completed a pre- and post-unit evaluation. 

Overall, participants reported to be in good health. 14 participants reported a past diagnosis of Covid-19. 

Overall, the Pendleton County Senior Center were satisfied with the program and loved collaborating with us.  The participants continued to practice their exercises throughout the week and told me they were going to continue doing them after program ended.  

As we age, it's important to maintain an active lifestyle to stay healthy and independent. Physical activity is crucial for the elderly, as it can improve mobility, reduce the risk of chronic diseases, and enhance overall well-being. In this article, we'll explore the benefits of physical activity for the elderly and how fitness apps can help seniors stay active.

Loneliness and isolation are common issues faced by the elderly.  Offering the opportunity to combine, physical activity, education and bingo was a win win for all who attended.