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.

The 264-page facilitator’s guide consists of 24 themed units, each accommodating a 60 to 90-minute face-to-face program. The length of the session can be modified by the number of activities utilized. Sessions can be offered weekly, biweekly, or monthly, and can stand alone or be presented as a series.  

From July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025, Wits has been offered 15 times in Hickman County to 10 participants. 1 male and 9 females, 2 Caucasian and 7 African American. Presented units include topics relating to improving episodic memory, quick recall, word association, and critical and inductive reasoning.  At the request of the site director, 15 minutes of easy movement and exercise was included to help reinforce the importance of getting 150 minutes of activity as expressed in the program.

The feedback from participants is overwhelmingly positive. Participants have expressed a lot of interest in the topics and have used the tips provided to improve memory.  All have responded positively to improved memory when using the tips such as audibly saying they are taking a medication or locking their door.   8 out of the 9 participants note using the physical exercises at home and report an increase in standing stability and 5 of the 9 report a slightly reduced fear of falling.  7 out of 9 participants reported using mental games like puzzles and crosswords in their free time to continue class session on their own.

 UK FCS will continue to work with extension colleagues from the U of IL to support WITS Workout and enhance evaluation of the program.