WKU News

Bingocize®, an evidence-based health promotion program developed by WKU faculty member Dr. Jason Crandall, was featured during the recent U.S. Senate Special Committee on Aging Hearing, "Preventing Falls, Preserving Independence: Technology, Community Programs, and Innovation in Senior Safety." Dr. Crandall is a Professor of Kinesiology, Recreation, and Sport in the College of Health and Human Services.

The hearing spotlighted effective community-based approaches to address falls, the leading cause of fatal and non-fatal injuries among older adults. Christine Didion, Director of Programs at the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco-Pinellas (Florida), highlighted Bingocize® as part of successful local efforts to promote strength, balance, mobility, and independence among seniors.

Bingocize® creatively integrates the familiar game of Bingo with structured exercises and health education to support long-term behavior change. The program is designed to be engaging and adaptable for older adults of varying abilities, including those in senior centers, long-term care settings, and virtual formats.

Key Bingocize® outcomes include improvements in functional fitness, balance, falls prevention knowledge, social engagement, and overall quality of life. It is recognized as an evidence-based program by both the National Council on Aging (NCOA) and SNAP-Ed.

This national recognition underscores the impact of research by WKU faculty in supporting healthier aging and community wellness. Research on healthy aging continues through WKU’s Center for Applied Science on Health and Aging.