The month of May is dedicated to Older Americans

As a growing a evolving population, we have showed how we can extend a life and keep everyone healthier and stronger year by year. The proof is in the numbers.   In 1963, President John F. Kennedy met with the National Council of Senior Citizens which resulted in dedicating the month of May as Senior Citizens Month. This was done because they recognized that 17 million people had reached their 65th birthday, and very few programs existed to meet their needs as they aged. A change was made to accommodate a growing population and was projected to increase in number exponentially in the future. U.S. Census projections indicate that by 2050, 86.7 million people will be aged 65 or more years. This age group would comprise 21 percent of America's projected total population at that time. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter designated May as Older Americans Month, a time to celebrate the achievements and contributions of older persons to the enrichment and defense of America, particularly those who served in the military.       This year’s theme is “Safe Today. Healthy Tomorrow.”  Older adults have a higher risk of injury, especially from falls, than other age groups. Use this month to create awareness of this critical safety issue. To bring this message to your community, the Administration for Community Living has a number of items to check out by clicking here . Visit the website for banners, logos, safety tip sheet and other materials to raise safety awareness and display the “Safe Today. Healthy Tomorrow” message in your facility and at scheduled events.