Community members of all ages need enhanced opportunities for physical and mental health. According to the 2020 US Census, ages 65 and over make up 22% of the population of Carlisle County (KY By the Numbers, Carlisle County Data Profile). To reach this specific population of the community and encourage increased efforts of health and physical exercise, Carlisle County FCS Extension and the Carlisle County Senior Citizens Center partnered on the implementation of Bingocize®. Bingocize® is an evidence-based health promotion program that strategically combines the game of bingo, health education, and light exercise. Groups meet twice per week for ten weeks, with each 45-60 minute session consisting of exercises (range of motion, balance, muscle strengthening, and endurance exercises) and health education. 

In Fall 2023, participants at the Carlisle County Senior Center completed the health and exercise unit. Over the duration of a modified 8-week program, as many as 15 participants met twice a week for fun, fellowship, and light exercise. 100% of participants noted satisfaction with the quality of the program and indicated that they had gained additional knowledge related to healthy eating while learning exercises they could practice and implement at home. Weekly “assignments” reported 100% implementation of increased daily exercise by the group at home.

Participants praised the program with the following comments: 

    “I really look forward to meeting this group every week! We have so much fun and exercise too.”

    “I haven’t laughed this much in a long time!” 

    “It surprised me how many more exercises I was able to do then I thought I could.”

The Director and participants look forward to the return Bingocize® to the Senior Center for future sessions.