May is Older Americans Month

Every May, the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month (OAM) marks a time to recognize our seniors’ contributions while also highlighting aging trends, and reaffirming ongoing commitments to serving the older adults in our communities.

President Joe Biden spoke of the importance of honoring OAM on May 1 when he declared that, “Older Americans are the backbone of our Nation. They have built the foundation that we all stand upon today, guided by the core values that define America — freedom, equality, decency, and opportunity. Their work has helped prove that our Nation can do big things when we come together. Now, it is up to all of us to build a future on those same values — a future where we defend democracy instead of diminish it, safeguard our freedoms, invest in communities that have too often been left behind, and deliver for older Americans while ensuring the people they love will be taken care of for generations to come.” Why is the observance of OAM so important? The Administration for Community Living (ACL) has determined that social connections and meaningful relationships have one of the most profound impacts on seniors. The ACL encourages all of us to explore the vital role that connectedness plays in supporting independence and aging in place by combatting isolation, loneliness, and other issues.

“Aging services professionals are experts in building and maintaining connections for the older adults they serve. Whether our mission-driven members are delivering in-home care, running adult day centers, building vibrant activities programs in assisted living centers and nursing homes, or adopting new technologies, they go the extra mile to keep older adults connected,” said Katie Smith Sloan, LeadingAge president and CEO. Leading age is an association dedicated to supporting the work of not-for-profit aging service providers “Connections have a strong positive impact on older adults’ physical, mental, and emotional health. And the relationships boost meaning and purpose for older adults and staff, all of which is vital for community and staff morale.” According to the following data from U.S. Surgeon General Vivek H. Murthy, MD, MBA, older adults experience the highest rates of social isolation and the impact is harsh. The data finds that:

Further, social isolation among older adults leads to more than $6 billion in excess Medicare spending yearly, mostly due to increased hospital stays and nursing home care.There are many ways that we can continue to share facts about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection and how it contributes to overall well-being within our families, communities and organizations. The ACL and organizations like LeadingAge recommend the following;