Bingocize® is an evidence-based health promotion program that combines bingo, exercise, and health education. The program helps older adults improve their health while having fun and staying socially connected.
The program can be used with older adults across many levels of care, including:
- Nursing homes
- Assisted living communities
- Independent living communities
- Adult day centers
- Senior centers
- Community settings
- Individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities
Bingocize can be offered in person, remotely, or using a combination of both formats.
Program structure
Participants attend Bingocize sessions twice per week. Each session lasts about 45–60 minutes.
Sessions include:
- Range-of-motion exercises
- Strength exercises
- Balance activities
- Endurance activities
- Health education questions
- Bingo games
- Social interaction
Facilitators follow prepared lesson plans and use participant materials that reinforce the weekly health topics.
Available workshops
Organizations can choose from several Bingocize workshops:
Standard workshops (10 weeks):
- Exercise-only for falls prevention
- Exercise plus falls prevention education
- Exercise plus nutrition education
Other workshops:
- Universal Wellness Workshop (6 weeks; designed for people with cognitive and physical disabilities)
- Range of Motion Workshop (designed for individuals with limited mobility and can be ongoing)
Most workshops are available in:
- English
- Spanish
- Chinese
- Polish
Who the program is designed for
Bingocize is designed for older adults who may be physically inactive or at risk for falls. The program works well for participants with a wide range of physical abilities.
The program works well because:
- Older adults are more likely to participate in programs that are fun and social
- Game-based programs improve participation
- Programs that combine exercise and education produce stronger health improvements
Program goals
Bingocize helps participants:
- Increase physical activity
- Improve mobility and independence
- Learn ways to prevent falls
- Learn about nutrition and healthy behaviors
- Increase social interaction
- Improve overall quality of life
Program outcomes
Research shows Bingocize can help improve:
Physical health
- Upper and lower body strength
- Balance
- Walking ability
- Range of motion
- Physical activity levels
Mental and social health
- Social engagement
- Confidence in managing health
- Knowledge of health topics
- Fear of falling
Evaluation and data collection
Facilitators are encouraged, but not required, to:
- Track attendance
- Conduct assessments before the program starts
- Conduct assessments after the program ends
Completed assessments may be submitted to Bingocize program staff.
Participants are considered program completers if they attend at least:
- 70% of sessions
- 14 of 20 sessions in a 10-week workshop
Research supporting Bingocize
Research studies show participants improved:
- Physical activity levels
- Fear of falling
- Social isolation
- Fall prevention behaviors
Additional research found improvements in:
- Upper body strength
- Lower body strength
- Health knowledge
- Health confidence
Attendance rates in studies were high, often above 90%.
Program delivery
Bingocize can be delivered:
- In person
- Virtually
- Using a hybrid format
Only one trained facilitator is required for groups of up to 20 participants. Larger groups require two facilitators.
Facilitator training
Facilitators complete an online training program that includes five self-paced modules.
Training includes:
- Program instruction
- Educational materials
- Marketing materials
- Facilitator manuals
Training typically takes about 100 to 150 minutes to complete.
No professional license is required.
Facility requirements
Organizations need:
- A large room with tables and sturdy chairs
- Space for participants to stand and move safely
- Enough space for facilitators to move around the room
Recommended class size:
- Eight to 20 participants per facilitator
- More than 20 participants requires two facilitators
If using the web-based game:
- Reliable Wi-Fi is needed
- Tablets are optional
- Paper bingo cards may also be used
Program format
Bingocize is delivered as a group program.
Sessions typically run:
- 45–60 minutes
- Two times per week
- For six or 10 weeks depending on the workshop
Programs can also continue long term for greater benefit.
Accessibility
Programs can be delivered:
- In person
- Remotely
- Using a hybrid approach
Materials may be adapted to meet participant needs.
Languages available:
- English
- Spanish
- Polish
- Chinese
Topics addressed
Bingocize may include education related to:
- Falls prevention
- Physical activity
- Behavioral health
- Dementia awareness
- Medication management
Ongoing support for organizations
Organizations implementing Bingocize can participate in:
- Monthly “Ask the Experts” virtual meetings
- Private facilitator support groups
- Ongoing implementation support
Licensing
Bingocize uses an organizational license model.
License cost:
- $420 for a two-year license for the first county
- $315 for each additional county
Training costs
Online facilitator training costs:
- $210 per person during the first year
- $149 per person after the first year
Training must be renewed when the license renews.
At least one trained facilitator is required to offer the program.
Equipment and materials
Organizations must purchase at least one Motivation and Movement Kit.
Cost:
- $365 plus shipping
The kit includes:
- 20 Resistance bands
- 20 Therapy balls
- One Facilitator T-shirt
- 20 Bingocize cards
- 60 Curriculum reinforcement items (prizes)
Organizations may purchase additional kits if offering the program at multiple sites.
Curriculum reinforcement items
Small prizes are used to reinforce program topics and increase engagement.
Examples include:
- Safety items
- Personal care items
- Small health-related items
Each kit includes enough items for one workshop. Additional reinforcement packs may be purchased as needed.
Program history
Bingocize was approved as an evidence-based program in 2018.
Contact information
Kristeen Owens
Phone: 270-215-4800
Email: kristeen@bingocize.com
Website:
www.bingocize.com