Programs >
Health & Wellness Classes
AgeSouth offers free classes to help individuals take charge of their health, stay healthier, and remain independent. These programs are evidence-based, having been rigorously tested in controlled settings, proven effective, and translated into practical models that are available to community-based organizations.
MATTER OF BALANCE
A Matter of Balance is a program designed to reduce the fear of falling and increase activity levels among older adults. This nationally recognized program was developed at the Roybal Center at Boston University. MOB classes are held over eight weeks, led by two trained facilitators per small group of 8-12 participants. The program enables participants to reduce the fear of falling by learning to view falls as controllable, setting goals for increasing activity levels, making small changes to reduce fall risks at home, and exercise to increase strength and balance. The curriculum includes group discussions, mutual problem solving, role-play activities, exercise training, assertiveness training, and a few homework assignments. Participants learn about the importance of exercise in preventing falls and practice exercises to improve strength, coordination, and balance. Participants also conduct a home safety evaluation and learn to get up and down safely. Volunteers of this program can assist by hosting a location, advertising an event, leading a class or helping with administrative duties.
BINGOCIZE
Bingocize incorporates exercise and health education with the game of bingo. Classes music, low impact movement and increased social connections. Bingocize originated at Western Kentucky University in 2011 and is currently taught in more than 500 facilities, including senior centers. Bingocize can help improve mental abilities, social engagement, and confidence in managing health care. Sessions are usually 45–60 minutes long, played twice a week and hosted by trained lay facilitators. While always incorporated into the game of bingo, the 10-week workshops can involve a variety of elements, such as exercise only, exercise and nutrition, or exercise and fall prevention.