Evidence-based programs for health promotion and disease prevention offer proven measures to encourage and support healthy aging among older adults. Many approved evidence-based programs are offered throughout the TARCOG service region of five counties.
Programs are considered evidence-based when they are built either directly upon reliable studies showing the positive effects of specific approaches or upon model programs that meet this requirement.
There are more detailed, established criteria for determining if programs are evidence-based to secure approval and funding eligibility through the Older Americans Act Title III-D or other discretionary funding.
The SAIL program is an evidence-based health promotion program for adults 65 and older. Participants perform exercises that improve strength, balance, and fitness, which are the most important aspects for adults to stay active and reduce their chance of falling.
According to the National Council on Aging, falls are the leading cause of fatal injury and the most common cause of nonfatal trauma-related hospital admissions among older adults. One in four Americans age 65+ falls each year. The SAIL Program began as a result of the Senior Fall Prevention Study founded by the Centers for Disease Control and coordinated by the Washington State Department of Health and Northwest Orthopedic Institute. Study results showed that falls decreased by 26% among seniors who attended SAIL exercise classes at least two to three days per week.
All five counties in TARCOG’s region participated in SAIL Program classes to earn certification to conduct SAIL Leadership Training in their respective senior centers. For information about SAIL classes in your area, please choose a county from the list below and contact the nearest site.