Ohio Department of Aging
Site MapSite HelpContact Us Text Size:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 2, 2007
COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Aging announced today that the theme for Older Americans Month, 2007, is "Be Your Best: Body, Mind and Spirit." Each May is celebrated across the nation as Older Americans Month, a time to celebrate the contributions seniors make to their communities. The department establishes a theme each year to promote awareness of issues unique to this age group and to help local organizations plan events throughout the state.
"We truly want all Ohioans to be their best, regardless of age, and have seen so many positive examples that older Ohioans just get finer with age," said Barbara E. Riley, Director of the department. "This theme will highlight the many ways our citizens can be more involved not only in their own health and well-being, but also help others through community service."
The department has launched a special Web site (www.goldenbuckeye.com/oam) with information on the May observance to help local senior centers, community leaders, advocates and others plan activities for Older Americans Month and, specifically, Senior Citizens Day, which is May 15 this year. Resources on the site will include activity ideas, publicity materials, posters and other useful items.
Local celebrations of Older Americans Month and Senior Citizens Day traditionally include awards dinners, picnics, dances, health fairs, intergenerational activities and more. Organizations hosting activities are invited to list their events on the Web site.
As a tie-in to Older Americans Month, the Department of Aging will also induct a new group of outstanding Ohioans into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, as well as recognize a number of dedicated family members who selflessly provide care for aging loved ones.
About Older Americans Month
Older Americans Month was established in 1963 to acknowledge the contributions of past and present older persons to our country. Every President since JFK has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. The observance is sponsored by the U.S. Administration on Aging.
About ODA
The Ohio Department of Aging serves and represents two million Ohioans age 60 and older. The Department advocates for the needs of all older citizens, with an emphasis on improving the quality of life for older Ohioans, helping them live active, healthy and independent lives, and promoting positive attitudes toward aging and older people. The Department provides services to older Ohioans through 12 area agencies on aging, home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman and the Golden Buckeye Card. For more information, visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.
Contact:
Online Contact Form…
Ohio Department of Aging