The population ages 65 and over in Clinton County are projected to increase by 22.7% between 2010 and 2025 (KY By the Numbers, Clinton County Data Profile). One area of significant ranking from the 2019 Kentucky Extension Community Assessment was more senior citizen support programs. With an anticipated growing senior adult population, the identified need for more programs, and past program success, a falls prevention unit of Bingocize® was implemented in Spring 2024 (the fourth 10-week unit to be offered locally).

Bingocize® is an evidence-based health promotion program that strategically combines the game of bingo, health education, and/or 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), bingo, and health education questions. 10 participants completed the falls prevention unit. 100% of participants noted satisfaction with the quality of the program and indicated that they had made safety modifications in their homes such as installing grab bars or securing loose rugs to reduce falls risk. 

The testimonial of one participant further highlights the program’s impact. She shared--First, the exercises with the BINGOCIZE® are geared for any age or fitness level. You do as much as you can and at your own pace. I couldn’t do some of them but there was an alternative that I could do. Oh, and by the way I can now help around my house and feel useful and helpful! Second, the engagement and encouragement from all the other participants and instructor is awesome!! I met and made some new lifelong friends! Third, the accountability is just what I needed. It’s easy to say you’re going to do something but if you have friends that are going through some of the same things and you’re doing it together helps everyone involved.

Based on its success, Bingocize® and other senior support programs have become a regular part of local Extension programming.