The WISE Program is a wellness and prevention program for older adults, teaching them to celebrate healthy aging, make healthy lifestyle choices, and avoid using substances. WISE provides invaluable insight on topics ranging from medication misuse and management, stress management, depression, loneliness and substance use. Since the program was launched in 1996, prevention programs presented by WISE facilitators have reached over 40,000 individuals!
The WISE Program has been awarded a 2009 National Exemplary Award for Innovative Substance Abuse Prevention Programs, Practices, and Policies by The National Association of State Alcohol and Drug Abuse Directors (NASADAD). The curriculum is listed on the Results First Clearinghouse Database, Administration for Community Living’s Aging and Disability Evidence-Based Programs and Practices (ADEPP) and was approved on SAMHSA’s National Registry of Evidence-based Programs and Practices (NREPP).
Learn more about the WISE program on NJPN's YouTube!
UPCOMING TRAININGS
March 24 & 25, 2025
Virtual on Zoom
May 13 & 14, 2025
NJPN Office
June 24 & 25, 2025
Virtual on Zoom
WHAT OUR FACILITATORS SAY
Seniors can’t get enough of the program. They have fun while learning how to improve their health, and it’s exciting to hear the behavior changes they have made by the end of the program. It really is making an impact in our community.
We began implementing WISE in Ohio in April 2014. I never could have imagined its success. Our participants report increases in learning and having a great time while doing it. Our program primarily focuses on senior centers and senior living facilities. Most sites who have hosted WISE have asked us to come back to facilitate again. One surprise is the benefit to the senior centers. WISE brings people to the centers who may not have ordinarily gone there previously. Senior centers are also noticing more people participating in other classes and activities after participating in WISE.
If you’re looking for a great program for seniors, this is it. WISE is easy to implement, and it truly has an impact on the seniors. They walk away with information, tools, and resources…and sometimes a new attitude about aging.