Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey has declared May as “Older Americans Month” in the state. In signing the official proclamation document April 26, 2022, Gov. Ivey urged every resident to take time in May to recognize older adults and the people who serve them as essential and valuable members of the community.
Jean Brown, commissioner of the Alabama Department of Senior Services (ADSS), echoed the governor’s remarks.
“Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more,” Brown said. “That’s why Older Americans Month has been recognizing the contributions of this growing population for 59 years.”
Many of the 335 Senior Centers across Alabama will hold events in May to celebrate Older Americans Month. Those events include cookouts, parades, music, organized outings, and games.
Brown said ADSS is committed to engaging and supporting older adults, their families, and caregivers.
“It is important to bring all of our generations together to take part in activities that promote physical, mental, and emotional well-being,” the Commissioner said. “Alabama is fortunate to have a number of community-based services that support independent living and provide opportunities for older adults to work, volunteer, learn, and lead.”
Each May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the national observance of Older Americans Month. This year, the ACL will focus on aging in place – how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible. The 2022 theme for Older American’s Month is Age My Way, which provides an opportunity for everyone to explore the ways older adults can remain in and be involved with their communities.
While Age My Way will look different for each person, there are common considerations:
- Planning: Think about what you will need and want in the future, from home and community-based services to community activities that interest you.
- Engagement: Remain involved and contribute to your community through work, volunteer, and/or civic participation opportunities.
- Access: Make home improvements and modifications, use assistive technologies, and customize supports to help you better age in place.
- Connection: Maintain social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and stay connected to your community.
The Alabama Department of Senior Services (ADSS) is a cabinet level state agency that administers programs for senior citizens and people with disabilities. For more information on the Alabama Department of Senior Services visit www.AlabamaAgeline.gov.
