Around the nation, older adults make their marks every day as volunteers, employees, employers, parents, grandparents, mentors, and advocates.
They offer their time, talents, and experience to the benefit of our communities.
For 57 years, Older Americans Month (OAM) has been a special time to recognize these contributions.
Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) each May, OAM also provides resources to help older Americans stay healthy and independent, and materials to help communities support and celebrate their citizens.
This year’s OAM theme, Make Your Mark, highlights older adults’ unique and lasting contributions to their communities—everything from sharing a story with grandchildren to leaving a legacy of community action.
How to celebrate Older Americans Month:
• Interview a relative—record the call or take notes and write up the story they tell you.
• Keep a journal of stories to share with friends or family when you can get together again.
• Write a letter to a friend or relative and tell them what you love about them.
• Use your phone or computer to record a story.
• Post a story on Facebook. If you can, include a photo. Respond to the comments.
• Pick a song that means a lot to you and sing it to someone. Tell the person why you chose it.
• Call a relative and tell them you have a story to tell. Set up a time that works for both of you so you can be relaxed and focused.
• Talk to your grandchildren about your favorite activities as a child.
