By Todd Metcalf
May is Older Americans Month, a perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for older adults as they are a vital part of our society. Since 1963, communities across the country have shown their gratitude by celebrating Older Americans Month each May. The theme of this year’s celebration is “Get into the Act,” to focus on how older adults are taking charge of their health, getting engaged in their communities and making a positive impact in the lives of others.
The theme also reflects on the 50th anniversary of the Older Americans Act. President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the act into law in July 1965. Since that time, it has provided a nationwide aging services network and funding that helps older adults live with dignity in the communities of their choice for as long as possible. These services include home-delivered and congregate meals, caregiver support, community-based assistance, preventive health services and elder abuse prevention.
The Area Agency on Aging pays tribute to seniors each year — especially during the month of May — and affirms the accomplishments and skills of older adults living in Lake and Mendocino counties.
As the baby boomers reach retirement age, our communities have increased their efforts to provide meaningful opportunities for older adults — many of whom remain socially and physically active through their 80s and beyond.
Current trends show that people older than the age 60 account for an ever-growing percentage of volunteers in community service positions, faith-based organizations, online social networking as well as arts and recreational groups.
Lifelong participation in creative, social and physical activities has proven health benefits including retaining mobility, muscle mass and cognitive abilities. But older adults are not the only ones who benefit from their engagement in community life. Studies show their interactions with friends, family and neighbors across generations enrich the lives of everyone involved.
Young people who have significant relationships with a grandparent or elders report that these relationships helped shape their values, life choices and goals and instilled in them a sense of identity and roots.
According to the Administration on Aging, approximately 40 million senior adults — people 65 years or older — live in the U.S., comprising nearly 15 percent of the total population. One of every eight Americans is a senior citizen, and this number is expected to reach over 72 million older persons by the year 2030.
As part of Older Americans Month and in keeping with the theme of “Get in the Act,” we encourage everyone to get involved with at least one senior and enjoy more playful social interactions such as games, sports, contests and other forms of intergenerational engagement. Possible fun activities include board games, bowling, cooking, swimming, baking, going to movies, taking nature walks, volunteering with a community service group and reading to young children.
Discover Older Americans Month: Visit http://acl.gov/olderamericansmonth.
Todd Metcalf is the Adult Services Program Manager at Lake County Department of Social Services.
