Online Program

Oral

Wider dissemination of evidence-based health promotion programs relies on developing, implementing and testing effective strategies. EnhanceFitness ® (EF) is an evidence-based and community-delivered group exercise program for older adults. From 2005-2011 over 100 YMCA-affiliated (Y) sites adopted and offered EF. Using the RE-AIM framework, this symposium examines the strategies used by Y sites to deploy EF. The presenters will introduce YMCA of the USA’s organizational approach to advancing a healthy aging agenda, including dissemination of EF; summarize findings from 52 phone interviews conducted with EF participants and instructors, and Y staff; and identify key lessons learned that will inform the subsequent national dissemination of EF by YMCA of the USA to 2,600 Y-affiliated sites. Given a rapidly aging society and the multiple benefits of physical activity, this symposium is timely and consequential because of the significant role that evidence-based programs play in health promotion. Dissemination lessons from early adopters of EF can inform dissemination efforts more broadly, including other evidence-based programs.

Session Objectives: Describe the role of YMCA of USA in promoting healthy aging. Describe successful strategies to increase adoption, implementation, and maintenance of EnhanceFitness in YMCA-affiliated sites.