May is a pretty special time of the year at our agency — it’s Older Americans Month. It’s a time to celebrate the wonderful contributions given by so many older Ohioans in our communities and express our gratitude for their years of positive influence and dedication to their families, friends and neighbors.

This year’s theme for the month, set by the Ohio Department of Aging, is, “Aging. It’s Everybody’s Business.”

During this month, we join with our providers, local senior centers and other important partners in the aging network, in recognizing older adults and the people who serve and support them as powerful and vital citizens who greatly contribute to our communities.

Ohio has 2.5 million residents over the age of 60 and our 60-plus population is growing more than 20 times faster than our overall population. Now, more than ever, it is important that we live well beyond 60 by making healthy choices and engaging in activities that enhance our well-being. As “Aging is Everybody’s Business,” it is important that everyone work together to design and implement solutions that address the issues, opportunities and impact of an aging population.

This year the Ohio Department of Aging is encouraging Ohioans to participate in their social media campaign by telling everyone how aging is your business. Log on to aging.ohio.gov and learn more about how you can be involved by sharing your thoughts.

At the Area Agency on Aging District 7, aging is our business, and we are here and available to help seniors in our community understand more about their long-term care options and resources. In addition, we provide other helpful services to assist surrounding caregiver support, wellness opportunities, Medicare information and questions, and more. Have a question and not sure where to start? Call our Resource Center and we can help guide you and provide more information about resources in your community.

We at the Area Agency on Aging District 7 are certainly proud of the opportunities we have had to provide services, supports and resources to older adults year-round. The services and programs we can provide give us the opportunity to promote happy and productive lives for seniors and those with disabilities, allowing them to remain safe and independent in their homes and communities. If you’d like to learn more about resources that are available for you or your loved one, please call our Resource Center toll-free at 1-800-582-7277.

So, a happy Older Americans Month to all. Please take the time this month to recognize seniors throughout our 10 counties and be sure to thank them for their important role in our communities.

 

 

Pamela Matura is the executive director for the Agency on Aging District 7.