Active Aging Week 2023

October 2nd kicked off Active Aging Week, an annual weeklong campaign celebrating the positive aspects of aging and living actively. Started in 2003 by the International Council on Active Aging, the campaign encourages host organizations—such as senior centers, recreation centers and health clubs—to provide older adults with opportunities to engage in wellness activities and exercise in a safe, supportive environment.

According to the World Health Organization, older adults benefit from regular physical activity to maintain physical, mental and social emotional health, prevent falls, delay dementia, and live independently for longer. Despite this, only 40% of countries have national policies in place to promote physical activity as part of active aging. The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Midcourse Report: Implementation Strategies for Older Adults specifically identifies exercise and health professionals as holding key positions to support and encourage older adults to increase their physical activity levels through direct interactions and services.

Registered exercise professionals can help older adults exercise in a safe, supportive environment by:

• Raising awareness of the benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle at every age.
• Tailoring physical activity programs to fit their needs, interests and levels.
• Facilitating goal setting and progress monitoring that keeps them motivated and engaged.

Check out our registry to find registered exercise professionals in your community.

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