For the second consecutive year, LeadingAge is partnering with the International Council on Active Aging (ICAA) to promote Active Aging Week (AAW), providing an opportunity to celebrate and highlight positive aging and showcase older adults’ capabilities and contributions—to their communities and beyond.

Members planning for this year’s event from October 5–11, 2026 can explore 2025 experiences for a sense of active aging possibilities. Celebrations looked different from community to community, but they shared a common goal: to demonstrate that active aging can take many forms. Whether through fitness, learning, or social engagement, AAW can spark meaningful experiences that leave a lasting impact long after the week concludes.

Roland Park Place

At Roland Park Place, Baltimore, MD, the week centered around the theme “Active Evolution: Every Decade Has Its Moves.” The program highlighted signature fitness trends from different eras, including Zumba, seated Tae-Bo, glow cardio drumming, Jane Fonda-style aerobics, and Jazzercise. The activities underscored how exercise and wellness practices evolve over time while reinforcing the enduring value of staying active. Residents also came together for Glow Bocce, building on the community’s connection to its long-standing bocce team, “La Bocce Vita.” Other highlights included a disco-themed Healthy Happy Hour featuring line dancing, mocktails, and a mystery game, as well as Cozy Yoga Deluxe, which was accompanied by live piano music from resident Dr. Henry Chen, a retired physicist and pianist.

St. James Place

For St. James Place, Baton Rouge, LA, AAW 2025 marked an exciting first: an inaugural celebration focused on bringing people together through wellness education, laughter, and friendly competition. The week began with a campuswide chair fitness class that united residents from assisted living, independent living, and even members of their clergy. Participants later put their healthiness knowledge to the test during “Wellness Jeopardy,” while outdoor games in the Butterfly Garden offered opportunities to enjoy the fall weather and connect with neighbors and staff. One standout attraction was the “Golden Glam” photo booth, where residents dressed up and posed for memorable pictures. The week concluded with the “Decades Dash,” featuring participants dressed in styles from the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s as they completed a one-mile walk around campus. A celebration filled with dancing, food, and shared memories awaited at the finish line, helping establish what St. James Place hopes will become a cherished annual tradition.

Holland Home

At Grand Rapids, MI-based Holland Home, the “Journey of Learning” theme guided a week of activities designed to encourage residents to grow, explore new interests, and connect with one another. Programs spanned all levels of care and included field days, pep rallies, field trips, and a fine arts showcase. Fitness and fun went hand in hand through physical education classes and a nostalgic “Recess Rewind,” where residents participated in activities such as bucket golf and bocce ball tournaments. Friendly competition also surfaced during a round of Are You Smarter Than a Fifth Grader? and through lighthearted “Most Likely To…” awards. Residents explored new experiences as well, including steel drum lessons and musical performances. The week finished with a spirited pep rally featuring staff cheerleaders, a dancing mascot, and the crowning of homecoming kings and queens. Holland Home also incorporated service into its celebration by donating school supplies to a local school, extending the impact of AAW beyond campus and into the surrounding community.

The Legacy Willow Bend

The Legacy Willow Bend, Plano, TX, focused on movement, wellness, and joyful engagement in AAW 2025. Residents began the week learning the Texas Two-Step and Foxtrot, combining fitness with opportunities to socialize and have fun. Other activities encouraged both relaxation and creativity. Throughout the week, residents enjoyed nutritious smoothies during bingo, participated in a tap dance class, and faced off against staff in a chair volleyball tournament.

Although staff earned bragging rights in the volleyball competition, the celebration continued during a “Cheers to Wellness” happy hour featuring live music, dancing, and laughter. The week concluded with a campuswide game day that included cornhole, mini golf, and shuffleboard. Together, the activities highlighted the many ways residents can stay active, connected, and engaged.

It’s not too late to get in on the fun in 2026: Register as a host site to gain access to resources and become part of a broader movement dedicated to celebrating positive aging.