This book focuses on better movement, but as an active ager, there are many other important aspects of life to consider. To address these, I’ve compiled a comprehensive list of resources spanning various facets of aging.
The resources include ones specific to San Diego for local residents, as well as online options for individuals outside of Southern California. At the time of publication, these resources are current. However, this is just the tip of the iceberg—countless additional tools and organizations are available for you to discover. I encourage you to do some sleuthing on your own as well! Many of the organizations and advocates listed here work in multiple aspects of exercise, wellness, and healthy living.
Additionally, be sure to explore your local government and area-specific organizations for further support. This list is by no means exhaustive, but it’s a great starting point!
INCREMENTAL FITNESS RESOURCES
On the Incremental Fitness™ website (www.incrementalfit.com), you’ll find an ever-growing collection of videos and blog posts covering a wide range of topics.
SAN DIEGO-SPECIFIC RESOURCES
211 San Diego – Resources for Older Adults
This page provides access to a wide variety of agencies and resources for older adults, covering housing, legal services, and more.
www.211sandiego.org/olderadults
Aging & Independence Services – San Diego County
This county-run website lists a broad range of services for older adults, people with disabilities, and their family members. Available resources include mental health support, employment training, and much more.
www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/ais.html
Alzheimer’s Foundation – San Diego
This foundation, which is independent of the national chapter, offers free services to support individuals with Alzheimer’s and their caregivers. Resources include access to clinical care coaches, online education, and support groups.
Feeling Fit Club
For those lucky enough to live in sunny San Diego, the county offers free fitness classes for older adults at various locations. Recorded classes are available online to follow along from the comfort of your own home, for those unable to attend in person.
https://www.sandiegocounty.gov/content/sdc/hhsa/programs/ais/health_promotions.html
Live Well San Diego
This partnership brings together businesses, health care providers, and community advocates to help San Diego residents of all walks of life and ages improve their health and thrive. The website includes an event calendar of wellness activities and community events, as well as resources on health-related topics across the country.
Oasis
Oasis offers a wide variety of classes, including instructional how-to sessions, educational courses, fitness programs, and many other resources, available both in person and online. A client of mine even took a course using her iPhone! Oasis has something for everyone.
https://san-diego.oasisnet.org
Sharp HealthCare – Senior Resources
Sharp Healthcare is a health care system in San Diego with hospitals, affiliated medical groups, and a health plan. It provides services such as health screenings, seminars, and other services and resources tailored for older adults.
www.sharp.com/services/seniors
Stein Institute for Research on Aging – UCSD TV
UCSD’s TV department offers videos, links, and resources on topics related to healthy aging, such as plant-based sources of Omega-3s, nutrition, and diets for longevity.
Stein Institute for Research on Aging – Public Lectures
The Stein Institute hosts free public lectures by renowned researchers and clinicians on topics such as sleep and how it impacts aging, effective Alzheimer’s treatments, and other subjects focused on mental and physical well-being for active agers. Past recorded lectures are also available for viewing.
https://healthyaging.ucsd.edu/events/public-lectures.html
FINDING A FITNESS COACH ONLINE
Word of mouth is often a great way to find a fitness coach. If you haven’t had luck with referrals, here are some online resources to help you locate certified fitness professionals.
American Council on Exercise (ACE)
ACE is a leading organization that offers general personal training certifications as well as specialized programs for fitness professionals. They also share helpful articles and videos for both fitness trainers and the general public. Their database provides a search feature to help you find ACE-certified fitness professionals in your area.
www.acefitness.org/resources/everyone/find-ace-pro
Functional Aging Institute (FAI)
FAI specializes in preparing fitness professionals to improve the quality of life for active agers. Through their certifications and workshops, they equip trainers to address the unique needs of older adults. Their searchable database can help you find an FAI-certified fitness professional near you.
www.functionalaginginstitute.com/find-a-fai-professional
Integrative Movement Institute (IMI)
IMI provides fitness professionals with various tools, including certifications, workshops, books, and free resources, to teach clients from all walks of life how to move better. You can use their database to locate a Certified Integrative Movement Specialist in your area.
www.discoverimi.com/imscertified
Original Strength (OS)
OS shares a unique and effective approach to movement that helps reset body functions like breathing and the central nervous system. The OS method also helps individuals connect with their bodies through movement, often in ways they have not experienced before. OS courses and certifications are open to both fitness professionals and the general public. Their website includes a database of OS-certified coaches.
www.originalstrength.net/find-a-certified-professional
EXERCISE DATABASES & TIPS
ACE Fitness – Exercise Library
This extensive and regularly updated library from ACE features exercises for all fitness levels. Each entry includes detailed instructions and helpful suggestions to ensure effectiveness.
www.acefitness.org/resources/everyone/exercise-library
HASFit – Exercise Library for Seniors
HASFit offers a variety of workout routines designed for older populations, ranging from beginner to advanced levels and with options of different lengths.
www.hasfit.com/workouts/seniors
Girls Gone Strong (GGS)
GGS provides advocacy and a supportive space for women looking to improve the quality of their lives through exercise, nutrition, and lifestyle changes. They also offer certifications and resources for fitness professionals who work with women.
Movement Reborn – YouTube Channel
Based in San Diego, Andy Hsieh shares his knowledge on better movement techniques through informative videos for the general public.
www.youtube.com/c/movementreborn
Original Strength Videos
OS also offers a video library focusing on bodyweight movements to enhance mobility and flexibility. Their techniques are movement-based rather than static stretches and often incorporate breathing reminders to help “turn off” muscle tightness.
www.originalstrength.net/videos
SilverSneakers
SilverSneakers is a well-known advocate for fitness and wellness among older adults. Their program offers free live classes and workshops for those aged sixty-five and above with eligible Medicare plans.
https://tools.silversneakers.com
YMCA – Healthy at Home for Active Older Adults
The YMCA offers virtual, at-home workout programs for older adults, including yoga and tai chi, designed to keep you active and engaged.
www.ymca.org/what-we-do/healthy-living/at-home/active-older-adults
US NATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS
This section includes US national organizations categorized into the following areas: aging, caregiving, government, health, home safety, legal, LGBTQ+, travel and recreation, and special populations. Many of these organizations collaborate and overlap since they offer a wide range of services and resources, so be sure to explore them fully to see everything they can offer you.
AGING
American Association of Retired Persons (AARP)
AARP is a national organization focused on the interests, needs, and vitality of individuals aged fifty and up. Their website features articles on topics ranging from politics and society to scam and fraud prevention. They also provide resources to help individuals make informed decisions. Membership grants access to additional content and services.
American Geriatric Society (AGS)
AGS is a national nonprofit for geriatrics health care professionals, dedicated to improving the quality of life and independence of older adults. Their programs include initiatives for better care of older adults, such as those hospitalized with hip fractures. The site also features publications and resources for health care professionals who are AGS members.
Columbia Aging Center
Part of the Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health, New York, this center focuses on interdisciplinary research and education aimed at increasing healthy lifespans, creating well-being in our second half of life, and making longevity an asset. Peruse their website for content including globally focused research. Check out their seminar series to sign up for upcoming webinars led by experts in the field.
https://www.publichealth.columbia.edu/research/centers/robert-n-butler-columbia-aging-center
Gerontological Society of America (GSA)
GSA is the oldest and largest interdisciplinary organization devoted to research, education, practice, and public awareness in the field of aging. Their website features a vast catalog of on demand webinars on aging research, health management toolkits, and several other resources like the GSA on Aging podcast and the GSA Momentum Discussions podcast, which include interviews and conversations with leading experts.
Leadership Council of Aging Organizations (LCAO)
LCAO is a coalition of nonprofit organizations advocating for policies that support the health and well-being ofolder adults in America. Their site provides information about their core issue areas, such as health, income security, and community services, along with current news and actions.
USAging
USAging is the national association representing the network of Area Agencies on Aging and Title VI Native American Aging Programs in Washington, D.C. They advocate for the needs of older adults through a range of programs and resources.
National Council on Aging (NCOA)
The NCOA provides advocacy for individuals aged sixty and older, as well as for caregivers and professionals.Their resources cover topics such as fall prevention, economic well-being, senior centers, and healthy aging programs. They partner with various organizations that prioritize the health and economic security of older adults.
CAREGIVING
Family Caregiving Alliance (FCA)
FCA works to improve the quality of life for family caregivers and those receiving care. Their efforts include publications about caregiving issues and health conditions, as well as operating the National Center on Caregiving, which focuses on legislative advocacy.
National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC)
NAC advocates for family caregivers and their care recipients through research, federal and state advocacy, and collaborations with like-minded organizations.
National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC)
This nonprofit represents home care and hospice organizations across the country, advocating for both theorganizations and their employees.
SCAN Foundation
The SCAN Foundation is an independent public charity that aims to improve care and supportive services for older adults while emphasizing their independence.
GOVERNMENT
Administration on Aging (AOA)
The AOA is the principal agency of the US Department of Health and Human Services, tasked with carrying out the provisions of the Older Americans Act of 1965. It oversees numerous programs that provide resources to the public on topics such as brain health, oral health, and HIV/AIDS.
www.acl.gov/about-acl/administration-aging
US Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)
The HHS works to improve the health and well-being of all Americans by offering a broad range of services and resources, including caregiver support programs, public health and safety initiatives, and explanation of rightsunder HIPAA regulations.
Medicare.gov
This is the official website for Medicare. Here, you can access information about your plans and find resources related to available coverage options.
National Institute on Aging (NIA)
The NIA conducts research to understand the nature of aging and to extend the healthy, active years of life. It also provides health information informed by research and reviewed by experts to help the general public learn about healthy aging and common health conditions in older people.
US Department of Veterans Affairs (VA)
The VA’s mission is to serve veterans benefits and maintaining a nationwide health care network. Its servicesaddress the unique needs of minority and homeless veterans, among others.
US Department of Agriculture (USDA) – Older Individuals Resources
The USDA provides resources tailored to seniors, covering a range of topics such as nutrition and healthy eating, as well as food security assistance programs.
www.nal.usda.gov/fnic/older-individuals
HEALTH
American Heart Association (AHA)
The AHA offers information and resources to help individuals build and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Topics include sleep, healthy eating, stress management, and recognizing heart attack and stroke symptoms. Professionals can also find resources like workplace health programs and CPR course registration.
Arthritis Foundation
The Arthritis Foundation advances and shares the latest research on arthritis and offers valuable tools and information for disease management.
The American Association for Geriatric Psychiatry (AAGP)
This organization focuses exclusively on geriatric psychiatry and the mental health and well-being of older adults.
Meals on Wheels America
Meals on Wheels delivers nutritious meals to older adults while also engaging in advocacy and conducting research on topics like food safety and in-home safety issues for the older population.
Medicare Rights Center
This nonprofit provides counseling, advocacy, educational programs, and public policy initiatives with the goal of affordable health care for older adults. It also assists individuals in navigating the complexities of the Medicare system.
National PACE Association (NPA)
NPA supports Programs of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), a program that allows older adults who need nursing home care to continue living in their homes and maintain their independence for as long as possible, while receiving comprehensive health care. Its efforts include working with policymakers and collaborating with like-minded organizations in Washington, D.C.
HOME SAFETY
National Directory of Home Modification and Repair Resources
This nationwide directory is provided by the Fall Prevention Center of Excellence, a project of the University of Southern California Leonard Davis School of Gerontology. It lists programs and businesses that perform modifications and repairs to help individuals safely live at home.
www.homemods.org/national-directory
LEGAL
American Bar Association (ABA) – Commission on Law and Aging
The ABA Commission on Law and Aging protects the legal rights, dignity, autonomy, quality of life, and quality of care of older adults through research, policy development, advocacy, education, training, and assistance to lawyers, bar associations and others working on aging issues.
www.americanbar.org/groups/law_aging
Center for Elders and the Courts (CEC)
The CEC serves as the primary resource for the judiciary and court management on aging-related issues. Their efforts include providing training tools, resources, and information to improve court responses to elder abuse and adult guardianships, as well as developing a collaborative community of judges, court staff, and aging experts.
Elder Justice Coalition
This coalition raises public awareness of elder abuse, neglect, and exploitation through research, articles, and monitoring legislation related to elder justice.
Justice in Aging
This organization, supported by a network of attorneys, works to protect the rights of older adults living in poverty by securing access to affordable health care, economic security, and the courts for older adults with limited resources. Their efforts include strengthening vital programs through administrative advocacy, litigation, and training attorneys, advocates, and service providers who work with older people.
National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys (NAELA)
NAELA is a nonprofit association dedicated to improving the quality of legal services provided to older adults and people with disabilities. Its members consist of attorneys who specialize in solving the legal challenges faced by older Americans and individuals with disabilities. The organization also offers consumer resources and asearchable database of attorneys specializing in elder law and related fields.
LGBTQ+
Old Lesbians Organizing for Change (OLOC)
This national network works to challenge ageism within their communities and within society at large while promoting the visibility of older lesbians. OLOC achieves this by leading workshops on ageism and collaborating with affiliates and supporters to educate and motivate them about ageism and its effects oneveryone.
Prime Timers Worldwide (PTWW)
A social organization for adults who self-identify as gay, bisexual, or transgender men, Prime Timers has chapters nationwide. Members engage in their community through volunteering, arts and entertainment activities, participation in support groups, and collaboration with other organizations to raise awareness about gay issues and medical issues.
SAGE – Advocacy & Services for LGBTQ+ Elders
This is a national advocacy and services organization with affiliates across the country focused on addressing issues faced by LGBTQ+ older adults. It builds welcoming communities by providing resources, centers, and programs that support the needs of LGBTQ+ older adults, training those who work with them, and engaging in nationwide advocacy efforts.
National Resource Center on LGBTQ+ Aging
This center, a program of SAGE, is the country’s first and only technical assistance resource center engaged in improving the quality of services and support offered to LGBTQ+ older adults, their families, and caregivers. It provides training, technical assistance, and comprehensive educational resources to help this community increase knowledge and awareness about various topics that impact them, such as aging and disability services, elder justice, mental health, allyship, and caregiver support.
TRAVEL & RECREATION
Road Scholar
This nonprofit organizes travel learning adventures for lifelong learners worldwide.
AmeriCorps Seniors
Open to individuals aged fifty-five and older, this branch of AmeriCorps provides service opportunities nationwide through its partner organizations.
www.americorps.gov/serve/americorps-seniors
Senior Planet
Senior Planet is a program created by the national nonprofit organization Older Adults Technology Services(OATS) from AARP.
Through this program, OATS helps older adults learn how to use technology to improve their work and lifestyle. It provides on-site training, online courses, and virtual classes on various topics, including fitness.
SPECIAL POPULATIONS
Alzheimer’s Foundation of America (AFA)
AFA provides support, services, and education to individuals, families, and caregivers affected by Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias nation-wide. It also funds research to advance treatment and find a cure, and offers professional training, workshops, and educational programs for care providers.
American Academy of HIV Medicine – HIV & Aging
The American Academy of HIV Medicine has a dedicated page for research, clinical trials, and articles focusedon older adults living with HIV.
Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) National Network
This network provides information, guidance, and training on implementing the Americans with Disabilities Act. The network consists of regional centers, with each center focusing on the unique needs of its cluster of states.
Alliance for Retired Americans
This is a grassroots advocacy organization working to educate the public and policymakers about critical issues affecting retirees and those planning for retirement. With the help of its members, it advocates and lobbies for related issues such as pensions, prescription drugs, Social Security benefits, Medicaid, and Medicare.
Alzheimer’s Association
The Alzheimer’s Association undertakes various initiatives to accelerate dementia-related advocacy and research, drive risk reduction and early detection, and maximize quality care and support for individuals and families affected by Alzheimer’s and dementia. It also provides resources for affected individuals and families, news updates on the latest research and treatments, and information for professionals.
Helen Keller National Center – Older Adult Program
The HKNC Older Adult Program supports older adults experiencing combined hearing and vision loss, their families, and the professionals who serve them. It accomplishes this through specialized services that provideaffected individuals direct access to education, resources, and available benefits.
www.helenkeller.org/hknc/older-adult-program
Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research
This foundation is dedicated to finding a cure for Parkinson’s disease through fundraising and supporting research efforts. It also shares information to help those impacted and build awareness about the disease and offers educational resources, including webinars, podcasts, and books.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI)
NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization whose mission is to provide advocacy, education, support, and public awareness to help individuals and families affected by mental illness build betterlives. Its efforts include providing support groups, a helpline, mental health education, and other resources such as podcasts, webinars, a video resource library, and guides to help those impacted navigate new or challengingexperiences.
National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA)
NAPCA promotes the dignity, well-being, and quality of life of older adults of Asian and Pacific Islander descentthrough programs such as job coaching, senior community service, and dissemination of materials on elder abuse prevention.
National Caucus & Center on Black Aging, Inc. (NCBA)
The NCBA works to protect and improve the quality of life for minority elderly populations through legislative advocacy, partnerships with like-minded organizations, and employment training.
National Council of Certified Dementia Practitioners (NCCDP)
This council provides dementia education, seminars, and certification to health care professionals, first responders, and correctional personnel to ensure proper care for individuals living with dementia.
National Council on Independent Living (NCIL)
NCIL represents thousands of organizations and individuals advocating to enhance the human and civil rights ofpeople with disabilities in the US. Its efforts include training programs, conferences, and policy monitoring.
National Federation of the Blind – Seniors Division
The senior branch of this organization is a peer-support group that empowers older adults experiencing vision loss and teaches strategies for independent living. It also provides information about state affiliates, retreats, technology seminars, publications, and other resources on relevant topics.
National Resource Center on HIV and Aging
This center focuses on older adults living with HIV, including long-term survivors. To empower this population to make better health choices, this organization provides information about available supportive services and resources such as webinars, current research data, links to upcoming HIV and aging events, and content on various health management topics.
Rock Steady Boxing (RSB)
This nonprofit organization is an international network of gyms and health and fitness professionals offering a boxing-inspired program designed for people living with Parkinson’s. The non-contact, boxing-based fitness curriculum has been proven to help improve their quality of life and ability to live independently.
Women’s Institute for a Secure Retirement (WISER)
WISER is a nonprofit organization helping women, educators, and policy-makers understand the issuessurrounding women’s retirement income. Its resources cover topics like Social Security, retirement planning, widowhood, and financial fraud and scams. It also partners with like-minded organizations on various projects, such as educating Latinas and their families about financial challenges in retirement and providing them with the tools and resources needed to help secure their financial future.
Us Against Alzheimer’s
This nonprofit works to secure more funding for federal research into Alzheimer’s and engages in targetedadvocacy efforts for minority and youth populations. Its work centers on prevention, early detection and diagnosis, and access to treatments by partnering with the government, scientists, the private sector, and allied organizations.
SOME OTHER ALLIES
Last but definitely not least, here are a few other allies to check out. These resources offer services and educational content for living a vibrant life.
The Dementia Guru
Ashley Stevens’ educational background in gerontology, along with her graduate certification in dementia care, makes her a powerful advocate in the field. She provides education, resources, and empowerment for caregivers and others impacted by dementia.
Found My Fitness
If you want to dive into the science of nutrition and health, look no further. I first heard Dr. Rhonda Patrick on Joe Rogan’s podcast and followed her over to her platform, a treasure trove of information. Her content is both topical and thoroughly researched, offering practical takeaways for people of all ages.
Gero What?!
Christina Peoples brings infectious energy to her work. With an MS in Gerontology and a concentration in aging and business, she creates engaging educational videos, interactive workshops, and other content to explore, educate, and all things aging.
Next Avenue
A nonprofit, digital journalism publication partnered with the Public Broadcasting System, Next Avenue covers current events, issues, and other topics relevant to older adults.
The Over 50 Health & Wellness Podcast
Hosted by Kevin English, this podcast is all about active agers living their strongest, healthiest, most fulfilling lives. Listen to inspiring stories of people from all walks of life as they talk about their fitness journeys, along with insights from experts and advocates dedicated to helping older adults thrive.
Sixty and Me
This platform provides news articles, videos, expert interviews, and resources on health, wellness, and personal growth to empower and motivate a global readership of women aged sixty and above.
Move for Life Book by Damien A. Joyner 