Powered by Connection is the theme for Older Americans Month in May, recognizing the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on our health and well-being. Older Americans Month is celebrated every May to recognize the impact older adults have within their communities and spotlight resources, services and individuals supporting the aging process such as senior center staff, home health care workers, family caregivers, advocates and volunteers. Click here for a list of Senior Day events in our region.
The Administration for Community Living leads the annual observance of Older Americans Month and establishes a new and relevant theme each year. For 2024, the theme is Powered by Connection, demonstrating how everyone benefits when older adults remain engaged, independent, and included. Aging is different for each person but below are some ideas to start:
- Share: Share facts about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection and how it contributes to overall well-being.
- Promote: Promote resources that help older adults engage, like community events, social clubs, and volunteer opportunities.
- Connect: Connect older adults with local services, such as transportation, that can help them overcome obstacles to achieving or maintaining meaningful relationships. Older adults can connect throughout our region at local senior day events.
- Encourage: Encourage partners to host a connection-centric event or program focused on older adult mentors to youth, peer-to-peer support, or similar efforts.
- Challenge: Challenge professional and personal networks to prioritize meaningful social connections and share the benefits.
- Inspire: Inspire older adults to share what connection means to them on social media using the hashtag #PoweredByConnection.
Explore information on the Ohio Department of Aging’s website, www.aging.ohio.gov and call 937-223-HELP to learn more about what local services and resources the Area Agency on Aging offers or visit www.info4seniors.org, and enjoy the regions celebration of Older Americans Month through county senior day events!
