Bingocize is a winner at the Community Health Education Clinic

By Savanna Yelling ’25

The Community Health Education Clinic has begun hosting Bingocize sessions, bringing together older adults for a unique combination of exercise, health education, and the classic game of bingo.

The program launched this semester after Central was selected as one of five regional sites in the state to implement Bingocize through Falls Free CT, a falls prevention coalition. 

The first session was held March 2 at 1:30 p.m. at Central’s Community Health Education Clinic. Sessions now take place every Monday and Wednesday at 1:30 p.m.

The program, supported by the National Council on Aging and the Administration for Community Living, aims to promote physical activity and improve balance while encouraging social engagement among older adults and people with disabilities.

Participants follow along with light exercise movements between rounds of bingo, incorporating stretching, balance and mobility activities led by Lisa McMahon, community health education clinic coordinator.

The Bingocize launch has been an exciting learning experience for both organizers and participants.

“Even I didn’t know what to expect,” McMahon said.

Six participants attended the March 11 session, alternating between rounds of bingo and mobility exercises. McMahon said she has been encouraged by the consistent group of participants returning every week.

“If I have a group this size for each class, I’m happy,” she said.

Central joined the Age-Friendly University Global Network in 2017, committing to support lifelong learning and engagement for people of all ages. Programs like Bingocize reflect the university’s effort to build partnerships that support healthy aging in the community.

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Lisa McMahon, Community Health Education Clinic coordinator, leads a Bingocize session on March 11.