Active Aging Week Calls for Renewed Focus on Physical and Mental Health 

As the world continues to contend with the effects of the pandemic, a renewed focus has been placed on our mental and physical health. Aiming to introduce – or reinforce – healthy lifestyles to as many adults as possible, the YMCA of Greater Brandywine (YGBW) has joined Active Aging Week 2021, presented by Humana. 

This year, taking place October 4 – 10 around the globe, the 19^th annual Active Aging Week (AAW) is led by the International Council on Active Aging® (ICAA) provides valuable opportunities for adults to engage physically, socially, cognitively, spiritually, professionally and civically. 

The YMCA is focused on providing opportunities for all residents of our community and provides a wide range of activities for older adults including in-person and virtual group exercise classes, targeted fitness and aqua classes, open and lap swimming, pickleball, social events and more.  

A free seven-day trial membership is available for those interested in participating in activities of their choosing during Active Aging Week. Request a trial pass at any time and browse offerings.

“We spent the last 18 months prioritizing the health and safety of our community through COVID prevention and safety measures – while these things still remain on the forefront, we have also come to realize the many adverse effects of the isolation and lack of activities and social connections, specifically for individuals and our older members,” says Denise Day, president and CEO of YGBW. 

YGBW joins a long list of other host organizations including senior living communities, senior centers, fitness centers, libraries and other YMCAs to offer events and activities at low-to-no-cost to participants. 

“Earlier this year, ICAA released a Call to Action to reclaim health and wellbeing for older people by integrating wellness throughout organizational operations,” says Colin Milner, founder and CEO of ICAA. “Active Aging Week is an ideal initiative to support this Call.” 

About Active Aging Week, presented by Humana

Started in 2003 by the International Council on Active Aging, Active Aging Week celebrates aging and active living each year. Host organizations engage older adults in their local communities with wellness activities and events provided in a safe, friendly and fun atmosphere at low-to-no-cost to participants. These organizations plan and deliver their own schedules of events targeted to any or all of the dimensions of wellness – emotional, vocational, physical, spiritual, intellectual, social and environmental. 

About the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA)

ICAA is a professional association that leads, connects and defines the active-aging industry and supports professionals who aspire to develop wellness cultures for adults over 50. This support includes creating wellness environments, programs and services. The association is focused on active aging—an approach to aging that helps older adults live life as fully as possible within all dimensions of wellness—and provides its members with education, information, resources and tools. As an active-aging educator and advocate, ICAA has advised numerous organizations and governmental bodies.