AARP to promote ICAA’s Active Aging Week to its members…Fourth annual campaign will celebrate healthier lifestyles

VANCOUVER, BC --The International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), the world's largest trade association for the senior fitness and wellness industry, and AARP, the largest nongovernmental organization representing mid-life and older Americans, are joining forces to encourage active aging. As the official promotional partner for ICAA's fourth annual "Active Aging Week", AARP will promote healthier lifestyles to its more than 35 million members during the last week of September 2006.

The weeklong initiative sponsored by ICAA culminates on October 1, 2006, the International Day of Older Persons.

Although many older adults consider staying healthy, active and engaged in life a top priority, vast numbers have yet to make lifestyle changes that will protect their health, independence and quality of life. "Active Aging Week" heightens awareness of the many ways in which a physically active lifestyle and healthy eating can contribute to this goal. The initiative also emphasizes that, regardless of age, individuals can live as fully as possible in all six dimensions of wellness (emotional, vocational, physical, spiritual, intellectual, social).

"At AARP, we are committed to promoting healthy living for adults ages 50 and older through programs, education and resources," says Margaret Hawkins, Manager, Health Promotion, at AARP. "Active Aging Week will allow us to introduce our members to numerous exercise and physical activity opportunities provided by participating organizations across the United States." 

"When we first launched Active Aging Week in 2003, we envisioned an annual event that would support millions of Baby Boomers and older adults across North America in adopting healthier lifestyles," says Colin Milner, ICAA's Chief Executive Officer. "AARP's involvement in this year's campaign means that 35 million Americans will learn about the many free offerings available to them during the last week of September." He adds, "By taking a class or going to a health fair, these individuals could make a start or gain momentum towards improving their health and well-being."

"Active Aging Week" events will be scheduled by seniors' organizations, retirement communities, senior centers, health clubs, parks, recreation centers and apartment/condominium complexes that are age-restricted. Host organizations may provide a single activity or multiple events during the week. For more information, please visit the "Active Aging Week" website at www.icaa.cc/aaw.htm.