Project Completion Date

Spring 5-6-2026

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts in Public Health

Community Partner

Macedonia FACE

Abstract

Introduction: Social isolation and loneliness are increasing public health concerns due to their association with heightened risk for chronic disease and their disproportionate impact on Black older adults (BOA). This project was designed to develop, implement, and evaluate the effectiveness of culturally relevant, low-cost activities on engagement rates among older adults during unscheduled program periods at the Macedonia Family Community Enrichment Center (FACE).

Methods: This project used a mixed methods approach over a 4-week implementation period. Three activities were introduced by the student facilitator, including UNO!, Name That Tune (NTT), and coloring pages. Engagement was measured by comparing the number of attendees to the number of people actively involved in each session. Satisfaction and feedback were collected after each session on a 3-point Likert scale (1 = would not want to do again; 3 = would like to do again).

Results: Across the seven sessions, engagement ranged from 29.4% to 66.66%, with music-based interventions demonstrating the highest engagement. Card games provided steady engagement in their two sessions. Including interactive elements (e.g., karaoke) appeared to increase engagement more than any other activity. Elevated levels of satisfaction were reported across sessions, showing a willingness to participate again.

Conclusion: The results show that tailored activities result in varying levels of engagement and consistently high satisfaction among members of the FACE senior center. Continued use of similar implementation methods is recommended when modifying or implementing new programming.

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