Monday, May 16, 2022
Older adults fulfill vital, positive roles in our communities as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, community leaders, advocates, members of the workforce, and much more. Especially during the pandemic, older adults were an essential source of strength and resilience. Just as every person is unique, so too is how older adults age and the different choices they make relevant to their aging journey. In short, there is no “right” way to age – that’s why the theme for Older Americans Month (OAM) 2022 is Age My Way.
Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the celebration of OAM. This year’s theme, Age My Way, focuses on how older adults can age gracefully in their communities, living independently for as long as possible and staying engaged in the ways that they choose. Regardless of your age, we encourage you to use this month as an opportunity to explore the many ways older adults can age in place.
While Aging My Way will look different for each individual person, here is a list of some common things everyone can consider in their aging journey:
- Planning – Think about what you will need and want in the future such as home and community-based services that offer you support as well as community activities that interest you.
- Engagement – Remain involved and contribute to your community through part-time work, voluntourism, participation in programs, or civic advocacy.
- Access – Make improvements and modifications around your living space, use assistive technologies, and customize home supports you may need to help you age better in place.
- Connection – Maintain social relationships and activities to combat social isolation and to stay connected in your community.
AgeGuide is excited to celebrate Older Americans Month (OAM) with our partners in the aging network and community. Ensuring older adults remain involved, included, and connected for as long as possible benefits everyone. Diverse communities are strong communities. For more information about OAM, visit the ACL’s Older Americans Month Website. For resources, referrals, and information and home and community-based services, visit our website.
Additional Resources
Older Americans Month 2022 (White House Press Release)
Governor Pritzker’s Proclamation
