The over 50 million seniors living in the United States are recognized in the month of May for their important contributions to society. Older Americans Month is observed annually, and the theme for 2023 is “Aging Unbound.” Celebrate the elderly during this spectacular month.

The Administration for Community Living decided upon the 2023 theme to encourage the full exploration of aging without being constrained by stereotypes or expectations. Numerous positive benefits are associated with growing older, and everyone plays a role in fighting ageism.

Older Americans Month began in 1963. During that initial year, only 17 million Americans had reached the age of 65. Also, during that time, about one-third of elderly individuals lived in poverty, and few programs were in place to meet the unique needs of this population.

In April 1963, President John F Kennedy met with leaders from the National Council of Senior Citizens to establish Senior Citizens Month—which was the precursor to Older Americans Month. Every president since Kennedy has asked the nation to honor a senior in their community.

Today, the population of seniors is no longer 17 million, but has grown to make up assistinghands.com/16/homeowners/elderly-population-by-state.html” target=”_blank” rel=”noopener”>21 million, but has the highest percentage of older adults, with 20.1 percent of residents being over the age of 65.

Many older people live in The Sunshine State because it is home to numerous retirement communities, has several walkable cities, enjoys plenty of year-round warm weather, and imposes no estate taxes. By 2040, more than one-quarter of its residents will be over 65.

Communities in Florida and across the U.S. celebrate Older Americans Month with ceremonies, fairs, and events designed to promote the physical, emotional, and social well-being of seniors. People celebrating this occasion also promote home- and community-based services that support independent living.

It’s also important during this month to increase the involvement of the elderly in community planning and events. Provide older adults with an opportunity to work, volunteer, mentor, and lead. Seniors have significant life experience, which can be invaluable for guiding youth.

1. Volunteer

Those looking for ways to celebrate this month are encouraged to volunteer with the elderly. Local community agencies, assisted living facilities, or agencies on aging welcome extra help. Alternately, offer to assist an aging neighbor, friend, or family member. Supporting each other makes communities stronger.

Older adults are likewise urged to stay involved with their community and show that aging has no bounds. Seniors can participate in activities at a local senior center, join a social club, or stay active by volunteering for a meaningful cause, working, or mentoring young professionals or children.

Seniors who volunteer are rewarded with numerous benefits, such as a reduced risk for limitations in physical abilities, improvements to their level of physical activity, and better psychosocial outcomes. Older volunteers simply have a stronger sense of life purpose and enjoy greater optimism.

Organizations that welcome elderly volunteers include Senior Corps, where volunteers provide companionship to older adults at home, and food banks, like Feeding America. Seniors might organize walks or promote education by volunteering with The Alzheimer’s Association. Foster Grandparent Programs are also meaningful ways to give back. Many libraries have adult literacy programs where seniors can help adults learn to read or practice.

2. Connect

Young people looking for ways to honor seniors during Older Americans Month should connect with elderly individuals in their communities. Social isolation can be devastating to a senior’s emotional and physical health, and loneliness is recognized as a public epidemic.

But as a community, people can combat the isolation and loneliness that plague older adults. Interact by sending emails with a friendly message. Seniors love receiving letters and cards. Pick up the phone and call an aging loved one. Or host a small gathering to celebrate this fantastic month.

Seniors, too, should make an effort to stay engaged with their community. Build relationships with people in the area to enhance quality of life. Strengthen bonds with family and friends. Or simply enjoy rapport with a companion caregiver who is eager to form a relationship with a care recipient.

3. Grow

Growing older with dignity requires that seniors embrace change. Seniors are encouraged to avoid letting age define their limits. Discover new passions by taking cooking classes or seek new adventures by traveling to a foreign destination or a new city. Push the boundaries of age during this month.

Growth also means inviting creativity and purpose. Seniors can try new activities right within their own communities to bring joy, energy, and growth into their lives. If extra support is necessary, professional caregivers are available to accompany the elderly in their pursuits.

No matter what their age, seniors continue to grow, are an integral part of their community, and remain important to volunteer organizations. Sometimes, however, older people need reliable transportation within their community. A home care agency, like Assisting Hands Home Care, can be a big help.

Our reputable senior care agency is staffed with professional caregivers who provide transportation to various locations. We drive seniors to doctor’s appointments, social events, and senior centers, for instance. Our services are vital to keep care recipients connected with their community.

We also provide comprehensive non-medical care services to older adults of every ability level. Our professional caregivers are experienced in delivering exceptional care, from assistance with meal preparation to light housekeeping and fall-risk assessments. We give timely medication reminders, too.

In-home care options from Assisting Hands Home Care are flexible and meet the needs of seniors. Respite care, hospice home care, dementia care, and live-in care are a few of the many specialized care services we provide. Our caregivers are also excellent companions, keeping loneliness and isolation at bay.

During Older Americans Month, evaluate the needs of the senior in your life. If extra help at home is beneficial, choose Assisting Hands Home Care. We serve seniors in West Palm Beach, Florida, and the neighboring areas.