NEW CHECKLIST
HELPS OLDER ADULTS
SELECT AGE-FRIENDLY FITNESS FACILITIES
VANCOUVER, B.C.
(January 4, 2005)-Although mature adults are joining health and
wellness facilities faster than any other age group today, many
facilities are not prepared or equipped to serve older members.
The
International Council on Active Aging (ICAA), the world's largest
senior fitness association, has createda checklist to help mature
adults rate and compare their local fitness facilities and choose
one that meets their needs. Facility owners and managers can use the
ICAA test to evaluate their facilities and take steps to become more
age-friendly.
A sample of the
ICAA checklist questions appears below. To download the
completechecklist, visit the ICAA website at
http://www.icaa.cc/checklist.htm
1. Is the
facility's atmosphere one you feel comfortable in?
2. Are the
locker rooms clean, accessible and monitored by staff?
3. Are the
membership contracts and marketing materials available in large
print?
4. Are signs
visible and easy to understand?
5. Is the music
acceptable and set at a reasonable level?
6. Does the
facility's cardiovascular equipment have the following age-friendly
features? A display panel that is easy to read, easy to change and
easy to understand
7. Do the
facility's treadmills start slowly, 0.5 mph?
8. Do the
recumbent bikes or steppers have a wide and comfortable seat with
armrest?
9. Does the
facility's strength building equipment have instructional placards
that have simple
diagrams, easy to read text and font, and correct usage
information?
10. Does the
facility's strength building equipment have a low starting
resistance, less than five pounds?
11. Does the
facility offer programs designed to meet the needs of those with a
variety of chronic conditions? i.e. osteoporosis, cardiovascular
disease, diabetes, balance abnormalities, muscular weakness
12. Do the
classes have different levels of intensity, duration and size?
13. Is there an
extensive screening and assessment process? i.e. balance, functional
abilities, osteoporosis
14. Does the
facility offer an orientation class or session to help you become
familiar with your surroundings?
15. Is the staff
knowledge about the impact that medication can have on exercise