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Powered by Connection: Celebrating Older Americans Month 2024

Recognizing Contributions & Commitments

May is Older Americans Month! Established in 1963 and led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), it is a time to recognize older Americans' contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities.

"Powered by Connection"

This year’s theme for Older Americans Month is "Powered by Connection.” The theme focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections have on the well-being and health of older adults — a relationship underscored by the U.S. Surgeon General's Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community.

“Powered by Connection” is truly about the transformative potential of community engagement in enhancing mental, physical, and emotional well-being. By recognizing and nurturing connectedness's role, we can mitigate issues like loneliness, ultimately promoting healthy aging for more Americans.

Fostering Community & Socialization

Connection is key to #OurCommitmentTo our residents and their families, we are dedicated to making our communities not just a place to live but truly a home where the laughter of children echoing through the hallways is not only tolerated but encouraged. Because it means multiple generations are growing old together. We are dedicated to our value of socialization and creating an environment where families want to visit and not have to visit out of duty. And know when you are not here, your loved one is being cared for with dignity, as if they were our own family. 

Encouraging Meaningful Connections

Connection is all about creating real communities that seniors can call home and encouraging families to visit regularly and become part of that community. Encouraging socialization, one of our core values, between residents, their families, our staff, and guests supports this commitment to connection. 

How To Acknowledge & Celebrate Older Americans Month? 

  • Spread the word through professional and personal networks about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connections.
  • Encourage social media followers to share their thoughts and stories of connection using hashtag #PoweredByConnection to inspire and uplift.
  • Promote engaging opportunities, like cultural activities, recreational programs, and interactive virtual events.
  • Connect older adults with local services, such as counseling, that can help them overcome obstacles to meaningful relationships and access to support systems.
  • Host connection-centric events or programs where older adults can serve as mentors to peers, younger adults, or youths.

What Can Individuals Do To Connect?

  • Find a new passion, join a social club, take a class, or try new activities in your community to invite more connection into your life.  
  • Stay engaged in your community by giving back through volunteering, working, teaching, or mentoring.
  • Invest time with people to build new relationships and discover deeper connections with your family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors.

For more information, visit the official OAM website and follow ACL on XFacebook, and LinkedIn. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #OlderAmericansMonth.

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