Why Monitoring Matters
Regular evaluation fuels both improvement and motivation. When older adults see real gains in strength, balance, and confidence, they’re more likely to stay engaged.
Using the 12-Week Follow-Up Assessment
The program includes a pre- and post-assessment designed to help participants measure progress over the 12-week period.
At the end of the 12 weeks:
- Readminister both assessments (4-Stage Balance and 30-Second Chair Stand) under the same conditions
- Compare individual scores to baseline (pre-testing) performance
Example: A participant who required the use of their hands in the Chair Stand during week 1, can now perform the Chair Stand without hand support. This participant has made a significant functional gain in lower body strength.
Ongoing Program Monitoring (6-Month Intervals)
When offering the SilverSneakers® Well-Balanced as an ongoing or repeated class:
- Reassess every six (6) months using the same functional assessments
- Encourage participants to treat reassessment as a personal check-in, rather than a test
- Look for and document functional shifts, such as:
- Improved 4-Stage Balance Test
- Increased repetitions in the Chair Stand
- Reduced reliance on supports (e.g., arms of a chair, wall, or walker)
- Increased confidence and self-reported independence
This periodic tracking helps instructors:
- Adjust class difficulty and progression
- Set individual and group goals
- Demonstrate program value over time
Other Ways to Measure Success
While assessment scores are valuable, success also comes in the form of:
- Participant stories (e.g., “It’s easier for me to get up from the couch now.”)
- Consistent class attendance
- Improved posture, coordination, and gait
- Reduced fear of falling
- Participant feedback
These qualitative insights complement numerical data and help paint a full picture of your program’s impact.
Celebrating Progress
Take time to show participants your support and celebrate their success:
- Celebrate even small improvements
- Emphasize effort and consistency over perfection
- Create a culture of progress, not pressure
Encourage participants to reflect on what’s improved for them personally. Reinforce the idea that every step forward counts toward a safer, more confident future.
In Summary
Recognizing progress, reinforcing purpose, and guiding participants toward long-term independence will benefit all participants attending classes.
Whether through formal reassessments or informal observations, your ability to track and communicate progress will help ensure that your class continues to make a meaningful difference.
Next, you’ll find all the tools and resources you need to successfully lead your classes with confidence and clarity. This includes the Master Class, educational scripts, assessment videos, and more.