Built for Facilitators Supporting Older Adults Through Evidence-Based Programs

BRIDGES training modules and toolkits are designed for facilitators leading chronic disease self-management and other evidence-based programs for older adults.

These resources support facilitators by:

- Enhancing awareness of well-being needs that may surface during programming

- Offering practical ways to respond within your role

- Providing guidance on when and how to connect participants to additional resources

No clinical background is required. The training and tools are designed to fit naturally within group education, facilitation, and structured programming settings—complementing, not replacing, existing curricula.

If you facilitate structured group education or evidence-based programming for older adults, these resources were built with your role in mind.

Practical Support—Without Adding Complexity

BRIDGES equips facilitators with tools and training to help:

- Recognize early signs that a participant may need additional support

- Respond in ways that are respectful, appropriate, and within your role

- Navigate sensitive or “off-script” moments with confidence

- Make referrals to trusted resources when additional support may help

- Support connection, engagement, and stability within group settings

This is not about diagnosis or treatment—it’s about supporting well-being in real-world program environments.

Flexible. Practical. Facilitator-Friendly.

✔ Short, self-paced online training modules

✔ Plain-language guidance designed for non-clinical roles

✔ Realistic scenarios drawn from group facilitation settings

✔ Downloadable toolkits for everyday use

✔ Free access—no cost to participate

Training can be completed on your own schedule and applied immediately within evidence-based programming.

Designed to Support Your Facilitation—Not Change Your Curriculum

BRIDGES was developed to align with chronic disease self-management and similar evidence-based programs.

Facilitators can use BRIDGES to:

- Prepare for sessions: Refreshers and guidance for situations that may arise during group discussions

- Support participants between sessions: Tools that reinforce encouragement, connection, and follow-through

- Handle sensitive moments: Guidance for responding when participants share personal concerns—without becoming a counselor

- Make referrals with confidence: Practical suggestions for when and how to connect participants to additional resources

- Strengthen group engagement: Approaches that help foster trust, reduce stigma, and maintain a welcoming environment

BRIDGES integrates smoothly into existing programs—without adding time pressure or disrupting program fidelity.

Supporting well-being is a natural part of helping older adults age well.

When facilitators feel equipped:

- Participants are more likely to feel supported and understood

- Needs can be identified earlier

- Referrals are made more confidently and appropriately

- Group environments remain safe, welcoming, and effective

BRIDGES exists to make facilitator support practical, accessible, and sustainable.