AARP's Web-based programs motivate age 50-plus adults to get active

With 39 million members, AARP is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to serving Americans 50-plus—and an organization with considerable power to reach, inform and influence this group. AARP strives to help adults 50 and over “have independence, choice and control in ways that are beneficial and affordable to them and society as a whole.” Healthy, active aging is one key focus.

Through various avenues, AARP promotes physical activity to men and women 50-plus. Efforts to educate and support AARP members include resources such as the Physical Activities Workbook, a booklet (also available in Spanish) that outlines how people can add physical activity into their daily lives, and an information-rich website. In 2004, after successful pilot projects, AARP expanded its website into a delivery mechanism for two physical activity initiatives, which thousands of 50-plus adults use today. These programs, Get Fit on Route 66 and Step Up to Better Health, integrate the motivational appeal of tracking devices with the fun of virtual adventure, encouraging users to increase their physical activity.