Articles
The Journal on Active Aging brings articles of value to professionals dedicated to older-adult quality of life. Content sweeps across the active-aging landscape to focus on education and practice. Find articles of interest by searching the article archives in three ways: Enter a keyword in the articles search bar; click on search by topic; or type a keyword or phrase in the general search bar at the top of the page.
Training the brain to change the way we age, part 1: understanding neuroplasticity by Lawrence Biscontini, MA
As we try to enhance the way we train the body to improve the way we age, including the brain in our approaches can make a huge difference. Research reveals that since the brain controls the body, and not the other way around, brain training can serve as the best point of departure for training. Fitness and wellness professionals can help clients--and themselves--build mental "muscle" for everyday life by adding brain games to physical movement.
moreCognitive health
Agent of lifestyle change: Dr. Andrew Weil sows health for the whole person by Colin Milner
No one can deny Dr. Andrew Weil’s bold views or his real impact when it comes to a more holistic approach to health at all ages. Known as the "father of integrative medicine," this renowned physician and author discusses eating for health, aging well, and transforming healthcare. He stresses the need for "a culture of health," as well as promoting health and preventing disease.
moreHealth promotion
ICAA Champions: Introducing Victoria Padro
Born into a large family, Victoria Padro absorbed from a young age how to cultivate things. "My mother was very creative, and I learned a lot from her, including gardening, sewing, ceramics, and other crafts," reveals Padro. "Since working and being active were instilled in me early, I continue to learn from others and teach myself new things today." As an ICAA Champion, she encourages her peers to cultivate new interests in their daily lives.
moreICAA initiatives
Active Aging Week 2015: living the adventure of life
Initiated by the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), Active Aging Week takes place each year during the last week of September. The weeklong campaign calls attention to and wholeheartedly celebrates the positivity of aging today. It showcases the capabilities of older adults as fully participating members of society and spotlights the role models that lead the way. For event hosts, a featured theme suggests a focus for the week’s marketing and programming. In 2015, Active Aging Week picks up from last year’s distinctive and popular theme, "Let the adventure begin," to exhort professionals and participants to "Live your adventure."
moreICAA initiatives
NuStep's Pinnacle achievers demonstrate wellness excellence
Ask active-aging professionals what they love about their work, and one thing they'll say is it’s their ability to make a difference in the lives of older adults. Those dedicated to active aging promote a healthier, more vibrant way of aging, offering opportunities and environments that encourage living well. The impact on people's lives can be remarkable. Equipment manufacturer NuStep Inc., located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, shares this passion for Transforming Lives. With the NuStep Pinnacle Award, the company recognizes--and spotlights--organizations that advance older-adult wellness through the seven dimensions of wellness.
moreProgram profiles
Brain training: Views diverge in the scientific community
In October 2014, 69 leading neurologists and cognitive psychologists signaled a consensus from the scientific community on the brain training industry. The consensus statement was skeptical of claims made about "computer-based brain games" - particularly that they offer "consumers a scientifically grounded avenue to reduce or reverse cognitive decline" - and cited a lack of scientific evidence to support them. A group of more than 125 medical doctors and scientists responded in December with an open letter expressing "significant reservations" about the statement.
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