Each May, we celebrate Older Americans Month, a time dedicated to honoring individuals aged 65 and older who enrich our nation in countless ways. This special month not only recognizes their contributions but also offers an opportunity to support and celebrate those who positively impact their families and communities.
Who Is Considered an Older Adult?
As mentioned, seniors over 65 are traditionally considered to be elderly individuals. However, the definition of older adults varies, since senior discounts are often offered to individuals who are at least 55 years of age. Old age can be further categorized as “early” and “late” elderly.
The number of older Americans is growing. The Administration for Community Living (ACL) reports that in 2022, the number of women aged 65 and older totaled 31.9 million and the number of men 25.9 million. They represented 17.3% of the US population in that same year.
The senior population is continuing to grow, with the prediction that by 2040, these older adults will make up 22% of the US population. Older adults account for a large segment of society. Their contributions and impact deserve to be recognized and celebrated.
How Did Older Americans Month Start?
Older Americans Month has its root in the 1960s. In April of 1963, US President John F Kennedy met with members of the National Council for Senior Citizens to address the concerningly large number of older adults living in poverty and receiving little government assistance.
Senior Citizens Month followed and became known as Older Americans Month. Each US president since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation in May, encouraging Americans of all ages to recognize and honor the lives and contributions of their elderly relatives, neighbors, friends, and community members.
What Is the Theme for Older Americans Month?
Flip the Script on Aging is the 2025 theme for Older Americans Month. The mission is to transform how society perceives and approaches the topic of aging. The ACL takes the lead during this month by challenging stereotypes and dispelling misconceptions surrounding old age.
How do Seniors, Families and Communities Celebrate This Month?
1. Utilize Senior Discounts
Seniors—the subject of appreciation during this month—have ample opportunity to celebrate along with their loved ones. Older adults are urged to take advantage of age-related perks, particularly the senior citizen discounts offered by numerous retailers in their communities.
Explore AARP, which lists the various senior discounts, with some available to older people as young as 55. Enticing discounts include those from grocery shops, clothing stores, and even cruises. Seniors can find ways to save—even outside of Older Americans Month.
2. Spend Time with Seniors
Families observe Older Americans Month by spending time with the seniors in their lives. Visit an elderly relative, friend, or neighbor and ask them to share their life stories. Other ways to spend time include taking the elderly individual to a community event or on another type of enjoyable outing.
3. Volunteer
Community members can show their appreciation for the older adults in the neighborhood by volunteering. Join a nonprofit that serves the elderly, such as Meals on Wheels. Deliver food and hold a conversation with the elderly recipients to bring joy into their day.
4. Host an Event
Host an event where older adults in the community share their notable life stories. Whether veterans or homemakers, seniors are gifted with plenty of life experiences that benefit younger generations. The thoughtful conversations that follow serve to bridge the gap between generations.
5. Hold a Senior Talent Show
Older musicians may be keen on picking up an instrument and sharing their talents with others. Hold a community talent show where seniors can show off their musical abilities. Filled with fun and dancing, the event is sure to give attendees, young and old, a good time.
The ability to contribute rarely wanes with age. Seniors may be brimming with ideas for their own local events. Let these experienced individuals take the lead and host an event of their choice. Being in charge also gives them a valued sense of purpose and meaning.
6. Explore Resources
An important part of Older Americans Month is to make resources accessible to the elderly. Take time this month to explore local programs and organizations that can be a benefit in the daily lives of seniors. Several abound, such as the local Area Agency on Aging and Eldercare Locator.
Families might consider looking into home care agencies to give their aging loved ones support at home. Professional caregivers assist seniors with the activities of daily living and promote their independence as well as health, safety, and comfort. An extra hand is always appreciated.
Observe Older Americans Month in May and honor the seniors who have made and continue to make a difference. Whether a family member, friend, or neighbor, older adults deserve the spotlight during this special month. Also explore in-home care options to make life easier for aging loved ones.
Home Care from Assisting Hands
Assisting Hands Home Care is a nationally recognized Home Care. Our professional caregivers are tasked with a range of non-medical care services designed to uplift seniors, support them in their daily lives, and promote their physical, emotional, and social health.
Caregivers provide respectful and attentive assistance with personal hygiene, including bathing, toileting, and grooming. We handle grocery shopping, prepare balanced meals, and ensure seniors stay hydrated by serving beverages throughout the day. Medication reminders are delivered promptly, and light household chores are performed to maintain a clean and comfortable home environment.
Our care services are flexible and tailored to meet your needs. Whether your loved one requires occasional respite care or around-the-clock support, our dedicated professionals are here to help. We also specialize in compassionate Alzheimer’s and dementia care, offering support to seniors with memory challenges. Additional services include overnight care and hospice support, ensuring comprehensive care for every stage of life.
This Older Americans Month, start planning for your aging loved one’s future care needs. Assisting Hands Home Care delivers quality home care to seniors in Schaumburg, Hoffman Estates, Palatine, Elk Grove Village, Inverness, Rolling Meadows, Des Plaines, IL and the surrounding areas. Call us at (847) 448-0844 to schedule a free in-home consultation today to learn more about senior home care.
