Describe the Issue or Situation.

Coping with the physical, mental, and emotional challenges of aging can certainly be stressful. Research clearly notes that positive mental health for older adults can be enhanced through intellectual engagement and socialization. Furthermore, one area of significant ranking from Clinton County’s 2023 data from the University of Kentucky Extension Statewide Community Needs Assessment was more senior citizen support programs.

Describe the Outreach or Educational Program Response (and Partners, if applicable).

Wits Workout, an interactive brain health program, was offered during the Fall of 2024 and Spring 2025 to address these needs. Wits Workout is a peer-reviewed, pilot-tested, brain health resource tool developed to assist leaders who provide programming to older adults in community settings. It was developed by Extension colleagues, Dr. Chelsey Byers and Molly Hofer from the University of Illinois. Wits Workout has two main goals—to provide purposeful opportunities for older adults to engage intellectually, and to increase their socialization through ongoing group participation.

Provide the Number and Description(s) of Participants/Target Audience.

11 older adults completed all sessions during the fall 12-week program while 12 completed all 12 weekly sessions in Spring 2025. In combination, 24 different themed units were implemented.

Provide a Statement of Outcomes or Program Impact. Please note that the outcomes statement must use evaluation data to describe the change(s) that occurred in individuals, groups, families, businesses, or in the community because of the program/outreach.

84% of participants completed a 6-week follow-up survey. Of those respondents, 100% indicated that they gained knowledge to share with others, friendships and socialization, and ideas to try from attending Wits Workout sessions. 100% also indicated using strategies learned to help them remember things in daily life. Narrative comments focused on how Wits Workout provided participants an opportunity to meet new friends, recall facts/memories, and work their brains. As one participant shared “All of it was very beneficial. Getting out and being with people my age was nice. Everyone enjoyed doing what they could and there was no criticism. Everyone did their best and had a great time exercising our brains”.