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 older adults who play two times a week for 10 weeks significantly reduce the fear of falling, increase levels of physical activity, and decrease feelings of social isolation. Because Bingocize® contributes to overall health and well-being and has a proven following in 49 states and multiple countries, FCS Extension renewed 25 county licenses for 2024-2026. 

To help participants learn and use health information focused on behavior related to exercise and nutrition, the FCS Agent in Bullitt County taught Bingocize® to 14 participants twice a week for 10 weeks. Of these participants, 12 completed a pre- and post-unit evaluation. 86% of the participants completed 80% of the sessions.   

 Participants showed no change in their fear of falling over the course of the 10 weeks, but 42% reported making safety modifications to their home as well as talking to family and health care providers about how they can reduce their risk of falling. 

Prior to the program, 7 participants reported seldom activity; 7 moderate activity of at least 3 times per week; and none reported vigorous activity for at least 30 minutes, 3 times per week. After the program, only 3 participants reported seldom activity; 9 moderate activity at least 3 times per week; and 1 reported vigorous activity for at least 30 minutes, 3 times per week. 78% reported their physical activity increasing to a higher level. 

All 14 participants were White. They ranged in age from 50-83.  13 were female, 1 was male. The majority of participants live in a two-person home and have completed high school, vocational school and/or college.  

As a result of this program, 12 participants feel more comfortable talking to health care providers about medications and other fall risk factors. 12 feel more comfortable talking to family and friends about falling. 12 report feeling more comfortable increasing activity. 12 reported feeling more satisfied with their life and all participants would recommend this program to a friend or relative.  

A valuable program, participants reported the following ways in which Bingocize® was helpful:

            Reduced joint stiffness

            Increased their range of motion

            Provided a fun way to exercise

            Increased their mobility 

            And provided motivation to stay active