When Older Americans Month was established in 1963, only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthdays. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns was growing, however. In April of 1963, President John F. Kennedy’s meeting with the National Council of Senior Citizens served as a prelude to designating May as “Senior Citizens Month.”
Older adults have made countless contributions and sacrifices to ensure a better life for future generations. Since 1963, communities across the country have shown their gratitude by celebrating Older Americans Month each May. This celebration recognizes older Americans for their contributions and demonstrates our nation’s commitment to helping them stay healthy and active. This year’s theme for Older Americans Month is “Safe Today. Healthy Tomorrow.” The theme focuses on issues critical to seniors, including injury prevention and safety to encourage older adults to protect themselves and remain active and independent throughout their lives.
Unintentional injuries to this population result in at least 6 million medically treated injuries and more than 30,000 deaths every year. With an emphasis on safety during Older Americans Month, we encourage older adults to learn about the variety of ways they can avoid the leading causes of injury, like falls.
While Senior Care Management Associates (SCMA) provides services, support, and resources to older adults year-round, Older Americans Month offers an opportunity for us to provide specialized information and services for all seniors. This information will help older adults take control of their safety and live longer, healthier lives.
Throughout the month, Senior Care Management Associates will be conducting activities and providing tips on how older Americans can live life to its fullest. To learn more about Older Americans Month and how you can participate, contact SCMA and follow us on Facebook, Google+, and Twitter.
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