Faithfully Fit Forever A Holistic Exercise and Wellness Program for Faith Communities

Older adults are at risk for numerous acute and chronic health conditions. Many of these conditions can be prevented or better managed by participation in health promotion and wellness programming. The social support found through involvement in a faith community makes this setting an ideal place for offering health promotion and wellness programming. This article includes a description of an innovative, faith-based, community-based wellness program titled Faithfully Fit Forever (FFF). The Cardiac Rehabilitation and Parish Nursing Departments at MeritCare Health System, Fargo, North Dakota, developed FFF in 2000. FFF is a holistic health improvement program that embraces the interconnection between mind, body, and spirit. It is led by laypeople (many are parish nurses) who are members of the individual religious community. The program includes 30 to 40 minutes of exercise, health education time, and devotional time promoting spiritual and emotional health.