This week, on the Fitness + Technology podcast, Bryan O'Rourke welcomes Colin Milner, CEO of the International Council on Active Aging. A leading expert on the health and well-being of older adults, Colin debunks myths surrounding the 50 and over crowd, particularly when it comes to tech savvy and their economic potential: Not only do adults over 50 make up half the number of all total adults, they also spend half of the money spent by adults altogether.

ICAA, in addition to challenging preconceived notions about aging, works to connect like-minded organizations and professionals who share the same beliefs. They are also the driving force behind Active Aging Week, which occurs during the last week of every September and encourages older adults to stay active, healthy and engaged.

About the International Council on Active Aging

ICAA's mission is to promote Active Aging as a solution to improving the quality of life for older adults. Our efforts are directed at helping businesses excel in serving the 50+ population, and at helping that population serve itself.

Although we are neither a policymaker nor a lobby group, ICAA has been the prime architect of the Active Aging industry, a network spanning 10,000 organizations managing 40,000 locations in 37 countries that cater to the health and well-being of older adults. Through us, organizations that used to work alone now connect with each other in the common purpose of furthering the Active Aging movement: retirement communities with fitness clubs; government agencies with for-profit organizations; wellness professionals with university scholars.

We are committed to making positive changes in the way that older adults everywhere live and are included in society.

About Colin Milner

Colin Milner is CEO of the International Council on Active Aging and founder of the active-aging industry in North America. Milner is also a leading authority on the health and well-being of the older adult, and has been recognized by the World Economic Forum as one of "the most innovative and influential minds" in the world on aging-related topics.

An award-winning writer, Milner has authored more than 300 articles. He has been published in such journals as Global Policy, and the Annual Review of Gerontology and Geriatrics. He also contributed a chapter to the World Economic Forum book Global Population Ageing: Peril or Promise?

Milner's speeches have stimulated thousands of business and government leaders, industry professionals & older adults worldwide.

Whether Fortune 500 companies, or governmental organizations, Milner's efforts have inspired a broad spectrum of groups to seek his counsel.

In addition, Milner received the CanFitPro Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to the Canadian fitness industry. His efforts have seen media outlets such as CNN, BBC, Newsweek, & Wall Street Journal, seek his insights.

Powerful Quotes:

"Tech is the way of the world now. It's no longer a “cool” thing. It's no longer something that only someone with means can have. It's basically becoming part of everything that we do."

"If we can use technology to help manage our health, and go well beyond our life expectancy, it's an exciting time, if you remain healthy."

Highlight of key topics discussed:

Colin explains the simple fact that “we are all getting older,” and challenges preconceived notions surrounding individuals over 50 years old.

Colin discusses the growth of technology among the 50 and over demographic, specifically as it pertains to “hyperpersonal” tech used to monitor health.

What are the healthcare trends on the horizon? Colin believes that one important trend is tools that empower individuals to monitor their own health. But are older individuals being consulted in that process?

Are companion robots and similar technologies set to become commonplace? Colin shares his thoughts on tech for everyone, not just millennials.

Colin talks about technology's role in aging, as well as how the topic will be represented at their 2018 Conference and Trade Show, October 18-20.