Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by a federal agency, the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlighting aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our community.
Why is OAM so important? Here in Brown County, we have nearly 60,000 adults over the age of 60. In other words, an estimated 22% of our total population is (hopefully) enjoying, or nearing, retirement. Within those 60 years, there’s so much to celebrate: an abundance of experience and knowledge, trials and triumphs, voices shared, and love given.
This year’s theme, “Powered by Connection,” focuses on the profound impact that meaningful connections have on the health and well-being of older adults. By recognizing and nurturing the role that connectedness plays, we can mitigate issues like loneliness and isolation, ultimately promoting healthy aging for more Americans.
What can individuals do to connect? ADRC is here to help!
Stay Connected
Invite more connection into your life by finding a new passion, joining a social club, taking a class, or trying new activities in your community.
Looking for something new to read? Want a couple of lunch buddies? Excited to learn a new skill? ADRC has a number of classes, workshops, social groups, and support groups to help you get and stay connected to others in our community.
Stay Engaged
Stay engaged in the community by giving back through volunteering, working, teaching, or mentoring.
ADRC is always looking for new volunteers! We wouldn’t be able to do what we do without all of the time, energy, and love our volunteers donate to our services and customers. Our volunteers help with packing and delivering meals, leading classes, baking in the cafe, and so much more!
Focus on Relationships
Invest time with people to build new relationships and discover deeper connections with your family, friends, colleagues, or neighbors.
For more information about Older Americans Month, visit the official OAM website at: acl.gov/2024/older-americans-month-2024. For more ways to get involved and connected, visit ADRC’s website at : adrcofbrowncounty.org. Follow us on Facebook and join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #OlderAmericansMonth.