May is a special time dedicated to honoring the contributions and experiences of older Americans. As we observe Older Americans Month, we recognize the wisdom, achievements, and resilience of the older adults in our communities. This year’s theme for Older Americans Month is “Power of Connection,” which recognizes the importance of relationships, community involvement, and opportunities to connect with others.
Connection is a key aspect of maintaining positive mental, emotional, and social health, which can be just as important as our physical health, providing benefits beyond a healthy body. This month is the perfect time to seek out and celebrate connection with the people in our lives. In this article, we’ve provided an overview of the history of Older Americans Month, included ideas for ways you can celebrate this year’s theme, and explored how social interactions can have a positive impact on your overall well-being.
The History of Older Americans Month
Older Americans Month has a rich history that dates back to 1963, when President John F. Kennedy and the National Council of Senior Citizens first established it. This month of celebration was the outcome of advocacy for older adults, to honor and acknowledge the contributions they’ve made in our country. As time passed, it also became the opportunity to not only recognize seniors but also to provide connections and support for this valued community. This annual celebration continues to inspire meaningful conversations and initiatives aimed at ensuring the well-being and inclusivity of older adults across the nation.
2024 Older Americans Month Theme: Powered by Connection
This year’s theme for Older Americans Month—Powered by Connection—honors the impact relationships and social connections can have on health and well-being. It aims to highlight the value of meaningful connection while recognizing that older adults are at increased risk for loneliness and social isolation due to living alone, losing friends or family, having a chronic illness, or experiencing hearing loss that impedes their ability to communicate.
If you’re experiencing feelings of loneliness, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone: nearly one-fourth of adults aged 65 and older are considered to be socially isolated. Fortunately, this month is a chance to find ways to get connected, stay social, and improve your overall health.
Ideas for Seniors to Get Involved in Their Communities
While aging can often feel lonely, try to remember that there are others—even outside of your immediate family and social circle—who are there to support you. Here are some ideas of how you can get involved in your community and reignite your social drive:
Volunteer at Local Organizations: Older adults can contribute their time and skills to local non-profit organizations, libraries, or community centers. This may involve mentoring, administrative support, or sharing their expertise in various fields.
Become a Member of a Local Club: Participating in club activities, whether it's a book club, gardening group, or hobbyist gathering, keeps seniors mentally and physically engaged. This social interaction can combat feelings of isolation and loneliness, fostering a sense of camaraderie and support.
Join a Senior Center: Senior centers offer a range of activities, such as fitness classes, arts and crafts, educational workshops, and social events. Participating in these activities can help individuals develop new friendships and a sense of community.
Participate in Local Advisory Boards: Seniors can join local advisory boards or committees that address issues affecting the community, such as senior services, transportation, or housing, providing valuable input and advocating for the needs of older adults.
Spend Time with a Friend: Connecting with a friend provides an opportunity for seniors to share their feelings, experiences, and concerns, offering a sense of emotional support and understanding. To expand their social circle, they can also invite their friend to bring another companion, inspiring new conversation and connection.
Social Interactions Can Lead to Happiness in Seniors
As you get older, you may have fewer commitments, may be working less, and may start to relish the fruits of your labor. But even if life starts to slow down, there can be major benefits in staying social and connected as you coast into your golden years. Staying connected can lead to long-lasting happiness, which may have a positive impact on your physical health. A decades-long Harvard study found that people who were happy were more likely to maintain their health as they grew old, and those who lived the longest had meaningful connections with others.
Stay Socially Connected During Older Americans Month with SelectQuote
This month is the perfect time to look for new opportunities to get involved in your community or reconnect with an old friend. As you consider your overall mental and physical health as a Medicare beneficiary, this information can help you continue to embrace the gift of aging. For other ideas for maintaining your independence and supporting your well-being, browse our additional lifestyle articles, packed with resources for healthy, happy aging.
