Press Release – Older American’s Month 2023, Aging Unbound
May 2, 2023
Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time for us to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of older Americans, highlight important trends, and strengthen our commitment to honoring our older citizens.
This May, join us as we recognize the 60th anniversary of OAM and challenge the narrative on aging.
Here are some ways we can all participate in Aging Unbound:
- Embrace the opportunity to change. Find a new passion, go on an adventure, and push boundaries by not letting age define your limits. Invite creativity and purpose into your life by trying new activities in your community to bring in more growth, joy, and energy. There’s a variety of local community activities indoor and outdoor. Not sure where to start? Check out local community and senior centers, or visit the Spokane Parks & Recreation spring 2023 guide at 2023 Spring Activity Guide (spokanecity.org).
- Explore the rewards of growing older. With age comes knowledge, which provides insight and confidence to understand and experience the world more deeply. Continue to grow that knowledge through reading, listening, classes, and creative activities. Washington State has partnered with GetSetUp to provide free virtual classes on a variety of topics for older adults taught by peers! If you’re a Washington State resident, you can join today for free to start learning new things, having fun, and making new friends. Sign up and try an online class today at GetSetUp: Live classes for older adults.
- Stay engaged in your community. Everyone benefits when everyone is connected and involved. Stay active by volunteering, working, mentoring, participating in social clubs, and taking part in activities. Aging & Long Term Care has a wide variety of volunteer opportunities where individuals can give back to their community by supporting older adults and adults living with disabilities in Eastern Washington, you can learn more by visiting Volunteer – Aging & Long Term Care (altcew.org).
- Form relationships. As an essential ingredient of well-being, relationships can enhance your quality of life by introducing new ideas and unique perspectives. Invest time with people to discover deeper connections with family, friends, and community members. If you are looking for companionship, our free Check and Connect program offers weekly phone calls to older adults. Individuals can speak with a person about their needs, learn about local resources, and discuss concerns. Visit Check and Connect – Aging & Long Term Care (altcew.org) if interested.
This year’s theme offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences and to promote the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age.
For more information about Aging & Long Term Care, follow us on Facebook or LinkedIn.
For more information about Older American’s Month, visit the official OAM website, follow ACL on Twitter and Facebook, and join the conversation using #OlderAmericansMonth.
