Celebrate Older Americans Month in May

For older Americans, celebrating their contributions to society is nothing new. Older Americans Month has been celebrated annually since 1963, when President John F. Kennedy designated May as Senior Citizens Month.

The Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM). ACL and its Aging and Disability Business Institute are partnering with business and community organizations to present the Business Impact of Ageing.

The initiative showcases businesses that are adapting and thriving due to the aging population. This year’s theme, Age My Way, is an opportunity for us to explore the many ways older adults can remain in their homes but still be involved with their communities.

Older Americans Month is a time to celebrate older adults for their contributions to society and acknowledge the challenges they face. It is also an opportunity to learn more about the services and programs available to help them stay active and independent.

Why Help Older Adults?

Older adults are a growing population. By 2030, older adults in the United States are expected to surpass all other generations.

Many older adults want to stay in their homes and communities. According to a recent survey, nearly 90 percent of people aged 65 and older want to remain in their current residence.

Older adults who live in their homes and communities generally have better health, more independence, and higher satisfaction levels than those who live in institutions.

How Can You Help?

There are many ways to support older adults in your community. Here are some ways you can celebrate Older Americans Month in Colorado:

1. Volunteer with a local senior center or Meals on Wheels program.

One of the best ways to engage with older Americans is volunteering with a local senior center or Meals on Wheels program. These organizations provide vital services and support to older adults in communities across the country.

Local senior centers across Colorado and other US states offer senior adults a place to come together for activities, recreation, and socialization. Many also provide meals, transportation, and other services.

Meals on Wheels programs deliver nutritious meals to homebound seniors who cannot shop or cook for themselves. These programs also provide a much-needed check-in and social interaction for isolated seniors.

You can find volunteer opportunities with senior centers and Meals on Wheels programs in your community by visiting the ACL website or contacting the Colorado Area Agency on Aging.

2. Visit an elderly neighbor or family member.

Want to make an impact in a practical and personal way? Consider carving out some time this month to visit an elderly neighbor or family member. You might bring them a meal, do some grocery shopping, or just sit and chat for a while.

Companionship is essential for everyone, but it can be precious for seniors who may be isolated or lonely. Even a short visit can make a big difference in someone’s day.

When you spend quality, intentional time with someone, you show them that they matter and that you care. There’s no better way to celebrate Older Americans Month than by reaching out and connecting with those around you.

3. Attend a community event, such as a concert or play geared towards older adults.

Colorado hosts a variety of events for older Americans every May.

These events are a great way to celebrate the contributions of older adults. They are also a great way to learn more about the services and programs available to help them stay active and independent.

Visit your local event calendar for your city to find out how you can get involved in activities aimed at older Americans this month.

4. Donate to a charity that benefits seniors, such as the Alzheimer’s Association or AARP.

The needs of older adults are often overlooked, but Older Americans Month is a time to bring them to the forefront. How will you celebrate?

If you want to help organizations that serve older adults but don’t know where to start, contact your local Alzheimer’s Association or AARP and learn how you can get involved. In many cases, simply spending time with an older adult can make a difference.

Even small, consistent acts of kindness can brighten someone’s day and let them know they are not alone. So this May, show your support for older adults in your community and help make a difference in their lives.

5. Learn more about the services and programs available to seniors through the Colorado Department of Human Services’ Office of Aging.

One of the best ways to help seniors is to stay informed and aware of the issues they face simply. So this Older Americans Month, take some time to learn more about the challenges seniors face and what you can do to help them age with dignity and independence.

Visit the Colorado Department of Human Services’ Office of Aging website for more information on Older Americans Month and the Business Impact of Ageing Initiative. These unique resources will help you celebrate older adults all month long while providing valuable information on how businesses can best serve this rapidly growing population.

Discover How To Lead a Thriving Life with Vintage Colorado

When it comes to celebrating the lives of older Colorado residents, it is critical to provide them with the best resources for a thriving life. That is exactly what Vintage does!

This May, we invite you to join us in celebrating Older Americans Month! Our experts can help you, and your loved ones discover how to lead a thriving life, no matter your age.

We can connect you to a variety of services and programs, including those that can help you stay active and independent, such as:

1. Fitness and wellness classes

2. Nutritional counseling

3. Social activities

4. Educational workshops

5. And much more!

For more information on our services and programs, or to become a member, visit our website or give us a call. Our team can’t wait to help you celebrate Older Americans Month!