In 1963, about a third of older Americans were living in poverty, with very few programs available to meet the needs of senior citizens. This prompted then-President John F. Kennedy and the National Council of Senior Citizens to meet to discuss the dilemma that older Americans were facing. As a result of this meeting, May was designated as “Senior Citizens Month.” Senior Citizens Month eventually became Older Americans Month (OAM).
Every year in May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the observance of Older Americans Month. Historically, this observance has been an opportunity to acknowledge the many contributions that our older citizens have provided to our country. Each year has a different theme that is celebrated through ceremonies, activities, and other events. This year’s emphasis will focus on aging in place.
Aging in place is the process of staying in your own home as you grow older instead of moving to an outside facility. Many older Americans prefer to live in their own home throughout their lifetime, including when age may make this more difficult. This also allows them to continue to remain independent and involved in their communities.
Aging in place may not be right for everyone and takes some planning ahead of time. Fortunately, there are resources that can help!
Aging in Place | A Guide to Growing Older at Home (retireguide.com) – Retire Guide
Aging in Place: Growing Older at Home | National Institute on Aging (nih.gov) – National Institute on Aging
OAM 2022 | ACL Administration for Community Living – Administration for Community Living
USAging – Area Agencies on Aging
Home | Center For Aging In Place – Center for Aging in Place
And follow #OlderAmericansMonth for the latest from ACL, and to see what others are planning!