Established in 1963, Older Americans Month is celebrated every May. Older Americans Month is a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities.
This year’s theme, “Powered by Connection,” focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections have on the well-being and health of older adults — a relationship underscored by the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community.
“It’s not just about having someone to chat with,” said Jennifer Westfall, Aging and Health Director at Buckeye Hills Regional Council. “Being connected with others can really boost your mental, physical, and emotional well-being.” When we recognize and nurture connections with others, Westfall says, we can better tackle issues like loneliness and isolation, improving the health and quality of life of older adults and their caregivers.
To help older adults in Southeast Ohio better connect with resources in their communities, Buckeye Hills Regional Council has recently revamped its website, buckeyehills.org, to include a searchable Provider Directory of local agencies and organizations that offer transportation, health classes, meals, counseling, social activities, in-home services, and more. Individuals can also talk with a member of the Buckeye Hills Information and Assistance team through either the website’s live chat feature, by picking up the phone and calling 1-800-331-2644, or by stopping by the Buckeye Hills table at one of the many senior health and resource fairs that take place throughout the region.
How can community groups, businesses, and organizations mark OAM?
- Spread the word about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection through professional and personal networks.
- Encourage social media followers to share their thoughts and stories of connection using hashtag #PoweredByConnection to inspire and uplift.
- Promote opportunities to engage, like cultural activities, recreational programs, and interactive virtual events.
- Connect older adults with local services, such as counseling, that can help them overcome obstacles to meaningful relationships and access to support systems.
- Host connection-centric events or programs where older adults can serve as mentors to peers, youth, and younger adults.
What can individuals do to connect?
- Invite more connection into your life by finding a new passion, joining a social club, taking a class, or trying new activities in your community.
- Stay engaged in your community by giving back through volunteering, working, teaching, or mentoring.
- Invest time with people to build new relationships and discover deeper connections with your family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors.
