Related Experiment Video
Updated: May 26, 2026
07:27
Exergaming in Older People Living with HIV Improves Balance, Mobility and Ameliorates Some Aspects of Frailty
Published on: October 6, 2016
Cost-benefit estimates of an elderly exercise program on Kaua'i
Naomi Sugihara1, Marisa Watanabe, Michiyo Tomioka
1County of Kaua'i Agency on Elderly Affairs, Lihue, HI, USA.
Hawaii Medical Journal
|December 14, 2011
Summary
The EnhanceFitness® (EF) program for seniors can reduce healthcare costs by 20% annually. A pilot program on Kaua'i demonstrated a strong return on investment, saving over $344,000 yearly.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Public Health
- Health Economics
Background:
- Elderly populations consume significant healthcare resources, with rising obesity rates exacerbating costs.
- The EnhanceFitness® (EF) program is designed to improve strength, flexibility, and balance in older adults.
- Previous studies indicate EF participation can reduce annual healthcare expenditures by 20%.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the costs and potential economic benefits of implementing the EF program on Kaua'i.
- To determine the investment-to-return ratio for an EF pilot program in this specific population.
Main Methods:
- A pilot EF program was established for 132 clients on Kaua'i.
- Program costs were calculated, and attendance records were analyzed.
- Healthcare cost savings were estimated based on national data and program participation rates.
Main Results:
- The annual cost for the Kaua'i EF pilot program was $204,735.
- 73% (96 participants) attended at least one class weekly.
- An estimated annual healthcare cost saving of $344,256 was projected for these participants.
- The investment-to-return ratio (I-R ratio) was approximately 1:1.8.
Conclusions:
- The EF program presents a favorable economic case for support and expansion on Kaua'i.
- Cost-benefit analysis supports prioritizing programs like EF for resource allocation, especially during budget constraints.
