Q: What is this year’s theme for Older Americans Month?
A: Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by a federal agency, the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities.
You may have heard that the Trump Administration is dissolving the ACL. It has been announced that its functions will be transferred to other offices within the Department of Health and Human Services. The ACL provides funding for services and supports provided by community-based organizations, helping to ensure that older adults and people with disabilities have access to the resources they need to live independently. Some of these services they fund include transportation, home delivered meals, and programs to support people with dementia and family caregivers.
While the funding future of these programs and services is unclear, Older Americans Month’s message is clear and more important than ever.
The theme this year is “Flip the Script on Aging.” This theme is meant to change the way our society perceives aging and approaches aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions.
Just a few weeks ago, I wrote a column about ageism. “Flip the Script on Aging’s” theme is meant to combat ageism and shine a positive light on aging. It encourages us to focus on the contributions of older adults and create a community that inspires healthy and active aging.
Ageing in a healthy way not only requires a positive outlook on aging and accessibility to services. People who have access to good healthcare, healthy food, and transportation, just to name a few, will be better able to maintain health and stay active and involved in their community.
However, the future of these services may look different. While we are in a time of transition and uncertainty, we can focus on what we can all do to support older adults. That means starting with how we talk about aging and healthy living.
“Flip the Script” and make sure the older adults around you know you value them not just for what they have done but also for who they are now. Be mindful of your language and do not reiterate negative comments about growing older.
If you or others are concerned about the future of some of the programs funded through the ACL, ask questions. Talk to the agencies that provide those services and ask for what you need. Let people around you know your concerns so they can support you and advocate for what is important to your well-being.
When things are confusing or uncertain, we can focus on what is local and the people we care about. Together, we can all “Flip the Script on Aging” and do our part to encourage healthy aging and spread a positive view of growing older in our communities.
Martha Shapiro can be reached at Senior Concerns at 805-497-0189 or by email at mshapiro@seniorconcerns.org.
