May is Older Americans Month — Meals on Wheels of Loveland & Berthoud

Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more. Just as every person is unique, so too is how they age and how they choose to do it – and there is no “right” way. That’s why the theme for Older Americans Month (OAM) 2022 is Age My Way.

Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the celebration of OAM. This year’s theme focuses on how older adults can age in their communities, living independently for as long as possible and participating in ways they choose.

While Age My Way will look different for each person, here are common things everyone can consider:

· Planning: Think about what you will need and want in the future, from home and community-based services to community activities that interest you.

· Engagement: Remain involved and contribute to your community through work, volunteer, and/or civic participation opportunities.

· Access: Make home improvements and modifications, use assistive technologies, and customize supports to help you better age in place.

· Connection: Maintain social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and stay connected to your community.

This year, Meals on Wheels of Loveland and Berthoud is excited to celebrate OAM with our partners in the aging community. Follow along throughout the month to find resources on aging in place, the importance of socialization, and resources for caregivers.

Diverse communities are strong communities. Ensuring that older adults remain involved and included in our communities for as long as possible benefits everyone. Please join Meals on Wheels of Loveland and Berthoud in strengthening our community - engage in our social media activities. We are hoping to collect stories and experiences from older adults in our community. We also encourage you to share share your wisdom, tips, and stories in our social media comment section. We might even organize a “selfie-contest” related to the month’s theme of “aging my way”!

For more information about the importance of this month and the national initiative, please visit the official OAM website, follow ACL on Twitter and Facebook, and join the conversation using #OlderAmericansMonth.