By Colin Milner, CEO of the International Council on Active Aging
Are you seeking creative ways to share your commitment to and passion for active aging with your local community? Are you looking for opportunities to make the community aware of the many services your organization offers? Consider getting involved in one or all of the following national health promotion efforts:
Go4Life Month (September 2016)
Theme: “#Fit4Function”
September is Go4Life Month. Launched in 2015 by the National Institute on Aging, this month-long campaign is an opportunity to focus attention on the health benefits of exercise and physical activity for older adults. Go4Life Month aims to help older adults think about the practical benefits of exercise in everyday life, such as being fit to drive, carrying groceries into the house, doing yard work, or even walking the dog. Connect with other active aging stakeholders during the #Fit4Function Twitter chat on September 14th at 1pm ET.
Twitter: @NIAGo4Life, #Fit4Function
Falls Prevention Awareness Day (September 22, 2016)
Theme: “Ready, Steady, Balance: Prevent Falls in 2016”
Established in 2008 by the National Council on Aging (NCOA), Falls Prevention Awareness Day aims to raise awareness of how to prevent fall-related injuries among older adults. Bringing education, awareness, and evidence-based solutions to local communities, Falls Prevention Awareness Day has become a presence in virtually all states.
Falls Prevention Awareness Day Website
Active Aging Week (September 25-October 1, 2016)
Theme: “Explore the Possibilities”
Initiated by the International Council on Active Aging in 2003, Active Aging Week promotes the benefits of a healthy lifestyle on a national scale by giving older adults opportunities to experience diverse activities and exercise in a safe, friendly, and fun atmosphere. Local hosts create event schedules for the week. Some popular offerings include group walks, group exercise and dance classes, intergenerational activities, health fairs, and demonstrations.
Twitter: #ActiveAgingWeek
These initiatives will enable you to engage current and future seniors, as well as their families and friends, no matter the sector or setting in which you work. Take advantage of the resources and ideas presented above to help you design and implement an active aging campaign.
Whether you participate in one initiative or all, reach out and engage your local community wholeheartedly with messages that connect to the greater effort and support health and well-being. After all, your community’s health and well-being is your business. It’s important to make the most of opportunities that show your commitment, both with support for health promotion efforts and with the services you offer. It’s a message that benefits your community—and your business.
Spread the word! Share this post with your network using this sample tweet: New on the BAYW blog: resources to promote active aging this month. #Fit4Function #FPAD2016 #ActiveAgingWeek http://bit.ly/2bPENTM