Lifestyle programs for older adults are growing

By: ICAA

International Council on Active Aging survey shows industry is expanding wellness programs and renovating or building new wellness/fitness centers

The results of the ICAA Wellness Buying Trends survey confirm that wellness programs for older adults are a vital tool for promoting active aging. Active aging is summed up in the phrase “engaged in life.” Individuals participate in life as fully as possible, regardless of socioeconomic status or health conditions, within the active-aging framework.

A wellness program for older adults includes all the programs, activities and facilities geared to support active aging, whether a fitness center, theater or computer lab, and the clubs, lectures and classes that fill them.

To explore how wellness programs are being implemented to support active aging, International Council on Active Aging, the association that supports professionals who develop wellness and fitness facilities and services for adults over 50, conducted a survey of the association’s members and colleagues. This online survey was completed by 388 professionals representing a mix of retirement communities (about 62% of respondents) and community-based service organizations, such as seniors centers and health clubs.

The survey found that areas of growth include both programs and facilities.

Programs are expanding. Most (88%) of the respondents work in organizations that currently have a formal wellness program for their residents or clients. Almost all of these organizations (93%) have already increased wellness activities in the prior two years. In a resounding confirmation of the value of wellness for older adults, virtually all of them (98%) plan to expand the programs they already offer.

New buildings and renovations are increasing. Nearly all respondents (91%) report they have a wellness or fitness center—a dedicated space for wellness activities. Nonetheless, 41% are planning to build a new center or renovate their existing facility. This group is planning to purchase new equipment, add new services, add square footage to an existing facility or make other major renovations.

“The results of ICAA’s survey show that retirement communities, seniors centers and other organizations understand that a well-managed wellness program that has adequate space and resources can have enormous positive impact on the health and quality of life of older adults,” points out Colin Milner, CEO of ICAA.

“The physical activity, social interactions and intellectual stimulus generated by wellness programs produce results that meet many of the national goals for population health,” says Milner. “These programs enable older adults to maintain or improve their physical functioning so they need less assistance; they help prevent depression and cognitive decline. Older adults who are healthier and happier volunteer, tutor kids and contribute years of knowledge to boards and commissions.”

“Wellness programs and facilities that support older adults also support society,” Milner believes.