New checklist helps older adults select age-friendly fitness facilities - Tip-Off

Parks & Recreation, March, 2003

Although mature adults are joining health and wellness facilities faster than any other age group today, many facilities aren't prepared or equipped to serve older members. The International Council on Active Aging, the world's fastest growing senior fitness association, has created a checklist to help mature adults rate and compare their local fitness facilities and choose one that meets their needs. Does your center measure up?

Many older adults have chronic health issues, including physical limitations. A recent survey published in the Journal of Health Promotion showed that the majority of health clubs that participated in the study still have many barriers to participation for people with disabilities. For example, only 8 percent of facilities had accessible exercise equipment, while 44 percent of locker rooms and restrooms were accessible. The study results show that health clubs still have a long way to go to address this issue.

Facility managers can use the checklist to evaluate their facilities and take steps to become more age-friendly. To download the checklist, go to www.icaa. cc/checklist.htm.