Community programs impact senior's health and quality of life. (Leisure and Aging Society).

Recreation agencies are helping communities reduce health care costs and keep seniors engaged by developing programs that seniors enjoy and that improve their health. ActiveOptions, a national program by NRPA, is just one example of how agencies can help this growing segment of the population.

"Although growing older means to many people that life will get worse, there's good news when it comes to physical activity and aging," says Jennifer Martin, NRPA's assistant director of professional services for health. "First, it's never too late to become physically active, and second, even a small amount of activity can result in better health." Research has shown that communities can develop key strategies for helping older Americans to become more active. For example, a recent Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report, "Physical Activity and Older Americans: Benefits and Strategies," describes the importance of physical activity, the prevalence and costs of inactivity, and the health benefits of regular activity for older adults.

The report also recommends levels of physical activity. Read the report at www.ahrq.gov/ppip/activity.htm.

Leisure and Aging Society sessions at the NRPA Congress in Tampa will include, "Assessing Activity Programs for Health-Related Benefits."