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Wellness is important at every age, but sometimes it’s hard to find ways to get moving or learn about healthy eating. That’s why CICOA is pleased to offer Bingocize®, a program just for seniors that combines fitness and nutrition with the fun of Bingo. These common questions about the program can help you decide if Bingocize® is right for you.
What is Bingocize®?
Bingocize® is a ten-week, evidence-based wellness program aimed at promoting fitness and nutrition to seniors. It’s played twice a week with at least a day in between sessions. Each session combines senior-focused fitness with nutrition information, and of course, a game of Bingo.
Who can play Bingocize®?
Bingocize® is designed for seniors. Anyone who qualifies for a CICOA community meal site qualifies for Bingocize®. However, because the program involves exercise, we work with players to get authorization from their doctors to ensure that everyone will be able to participate safely. You do not need to be physically fit to play Bingocize®, and if an exercise feels too difficult, you can always try a less intense version or skip it entirely.
What does a session look like?
Bingocize® sessions last about an hour. They combine Bingo with light exercises designed not to be overly stressful on the body and questions about nutrition—such as which foods are a good source of a vitamin or how to read labels at a store. Bingo winners receive small prizes, and typically there are several winners per session. We welcome players of all levels, whether you’re just getting started with exercise or work out regularly, or if you pride yourself on healthy eating or need to learn more about nutrition. The goal is to have fun and learn together.
Where is Bingocize® offered?
Bingocize® is offered periodically at CICOA’s meal sites, typically right before or after lunch. We are always looking to bring Bingocize® to new locations, so keep your eyes peeled for a Bingocize® program near you!
Our next Bingocize® program will start Feb. 7 at Stetson, Mondays and Wednesdays, 12 to 1 p.m. Join us for an information session at Stetson Senior Apartments, 703 E. 30th St., Indianapolis, on Jan. 24 or 31 from 12 to 1 p.m., or call 317-803-6070 to learn more.
Grant Moran
Grant Moran is the AmeriCorps Senior Health and Wellness VISTA at CICOA. An Indy local, Grant has a bachelor’s degree in Spanish and Letters from the University of Oklahoma. While in university, Grant volunteered as an interpreter at a low-income medical clinic, interned in communications at the U.S. State Department, and contributed community outreach and educational programming for the university’s Gender and Equality Center. These experiences fostered an interest in public service that continues to this day.
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