Calculate the Cost of Physical Inactivity
Physical inactivity and sedentary lifestyles are contributing to a national health crisis of epidemic proportions. In 1999-2000, an estimated 64 percent of U.S. adults aged 20 years and older were either overweight or obese. Aside from the personal cost of individual health problems, a physically inactive population is a financial burden to taxpayers and society as a whole, impacting business and local government throughout the U.S. The Physical Inactivity Cost Calculator provides government leaders, policy-makers, and businesses a way to estimate the financial costs of a physically inactive employee base or community and shows decision makers how to reallocate existing financial resources to support physical activity.
Simple demographic data is entered into the calculator by an individual. Using a scientific-based formula, the calculator computes the estimated cost of physical inactivity based on the aggregate of medical, workers' compensation and loss of productivity costs. The calculator will begin to provide businesses and community leaders with an estimate of costs associated with physically inactive populations and enable them to make the case to support healthier community design, healthier worksites and physical activity programs."
The Physical Inactivity Cost Calculator was developed with funding from Fifty Plus Lifelong Fitness. The National Coalition for Promoting Physical Activity also sponsors the project, which is supported by additional partner organizations, including AARP.
