Active Aging Week is an annual event held the last week of September (culminating on October 1, International Day of Older Persons) with the goal of giving as many older adults as possible the means to experience activities and exercise in a safe, friendly and fun atmosphere. During the week, host organizations provide a variety of free activities, such as classes, educational seminars, access to fitness facilities, health fairs and community walks.

"We chose this year's theme to emphasize that we all have a choice to contribute to our own health and well-being," says Colin Milner, CEO of ICAA. "Current research suggests that the top concerns of older adults include running out of money and losing their health. Staying active is a means of preserving one's health which, in the long run, will save huge costs in healthcare."

In past years, thousands of organizations have participated in Active Aging Week, influencing hundreds of thousands of older adults' lives. Events are held at senior living organizations, seniors centers, health clubs, parks, recreation centers and apartment/condominium complexes that are age-restricted or age-qualified. This year's event is sponsored by Philips Medical Systems, Thorlo, Inc and The Theraband Academy.

"For many participants," states Milner, "Active Aging Week is their first introduction to physical activity as an older adult. Many come to the realization that choosing an active life will lead to improved health and longevity."

During the last week in September older adults and their families will have the opportunity to take part in events that are fun, informative and best of all, free. For more information on Active Aging Week visit www.icaa.cc. Plus, look for announcements of local events in newspapers, radio and television broadcasts, and posted on bulletin boards. Find out how to choose an active life by participating in Active Aging Week, September 24-October 1, 2007.

About Active Aging Week
Website: www.icaa.cc/aaw.htm

Active Aging Week is an annual event held the last week of September (culminating on October 1, International Day of Older Persons). The week was initiated by the International Council of Active Aging to give as many older adults as possible the means to experience activities and exercise in a safe, friendly and fun atmosphere. During the week, host organizations provide a variety of free activities, such as classes, educational seminars, access to fitness facilities, health fairs, community walks or tennis matches.

About International Council on Active Aging

ICAA is the world's largest association dedicated to changing the way we age by uniting professionals in the retirement, assisted living, recreation, fitness, rehabilitation and wellness fields. The council supports these professionals with education, information, resources and tools, so they can achieve optimal success with the growing population of people who are 50 years and older. ICAA is one of more than 50 of the most prominent health and aging organizations working to implement the National Blueprint on Aging.

For interviews or more information about the ICAA and aging-related issues, contact:
Colin Milner, CEO
International Council on Active Aging
Toll-free: 1-866-335-9777 (North America only)
Telephone: 604-734-4466
Cell: 604-763-4595
Email: colinmilner@icaa.cc
Website: www.icaa.cc