SAIL Description, Topics and Outcomes

Training Description: A course designed to educate, train and certify individuals seeking the Stay Active and Independent for Life (SAIL) Instructor Certification.

Topics Covered:

Fitness components for older adults (age 65+)
Health risk factors for older adults
Disease considerations for the elderly
SAIL Instructor program requirements
SAIL Program age specific exercise adaptations (seated or standing versions)

Training Outcomes:

Discuss and identify various health risk factors for older adults age 65+
Understand why older adults are at risk for falls and fall-related injuries, and discuss fall prevention modalities.
Articulate the various components of fitness specific to older adult populations.
Identify motor systems, sensory systems and cognitive systems as components of balance, and their relationship to health and physical function in older adults
Articulate the various seated exercise modalities for older adults.
Define the Borg Perceived Exertion Scale.
Discuss appropriate motivational techniques specific to older adult populations.
Identify and describe various age related medical issues as they relate to exercise.
Articulate various elements of a senior exercise plan.
Discuss and articulate various nutritional principles age specific for older adults.

Pierce College "Core Abilities" addressed:

Responsibility - Recognizes that achieving a healthy lifestyle for seniors requires a scientifically based lifestyle and that elderly individuals are responsible for their lifestyle choices.

Potential methods and tools for assessment:

Instructor and self-evaluation of contributions to class discussion
Participation in specialized activities
Instructor, peer, and self-evaluation of small group participation
Written self-health and fitness assessment plan
Completion of out-of-class activities done in the community, e.g. based upon activities suggested in the textbook
Objective examination (multiple choice, true-false, fill-in)
Prevention/intervention project