Page 92 - Illinois Association of Park Districts Benefits of Membership 2017 - 2018

POSITION OF THE ILLINOIS ASSOCIATION OF PARK DISTRICTS
Senior services – the role of park districts, forest preserves, conservation and recreation agencies
The issue
During 2006, more than 75 million American baby boomers will turn 60.1 Never has it been more important for park districts, forest preserves, conservation and recreation agencies to enhance programming for this growing senior population. Studies have proven that fit seniors live longer, remain in their homes longer and participate more fully in community life.
The Illinois Association of Park Districts (IAPD) urges all seniors to engage in active recreation three or more days a week to prevent heart disease, obesity, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and mental health challenges such as depression. Further, the Illinois Association of Park Districts urges public policymakers to provide appropriate recreational opportunities in communities across Illinois at an affordable cost. All Illinois seniors must be given equal opportunities to participate in healthy activities without economic hardship. Such local government bodies as park districts, forest preserves, conservation and recreation agencies provide these opportunities and must prepare to increase their efforts.
Background
The United States is on the brink of a longevity revolution. By 2030, one in every five people in the United States will be a member of the senior population.2 While a large number of seniors currently use a significant portion of parks and recreation services, the number of such consumers will skyrocket during the next 25 years.3
Currently, the mature market represents more than 23 percent of all fitness memberships and 43 percent of all hospital wellness center memberships.4
The benefits of physical activity to seniors
1 American Senior Fitness Association
2Healthy Aging for Older Adults, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, www.cdc.gov/aging.
3Active Aging 101, Sarah Burnett-Wolle, MS, CTRS and Geoffrey Godbey.
4Speaking Their Language, Colin Milner, American Senior Fitness Association, www.seniorfitness.org/Speaking.htm.
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