Older Americans Month was first celebrated when President John F. Kennedy designated May 1963 as Senior Citizens Month. After a meeting with the National Council of Senior Citizens, Kennedy encouraged all Americans to pay tribute to older people across the country.
May is Older American Month
Every President since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May in support of older Americans. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter’s proclamation changed the name to Older Americans Month.
The month of May continues to be a time to celebrate Americans 65 and older through ceremonies, events and public recognition.
Central Ohio Resources in Older Americans Month
There are various resources throughout Central Ohio whose sole responsibility is to provide resources, services and education to older adults, their families and caregivers.
The Central Ohio Area Agency on Aging plans, funds and develops services that make our communities places where individuals can live with independence and dignity. They also coordinate and arrange services for more than 8,000 individuals who participate in community based long term care programs including PASSPORT, MyCare Ohio, the Ohio Home Care Waiver and the Franklin County Senior Options Program. Working with local Advisory Council Members from our eight counties, they advocate for policies and programs that benefit older adults and people with disabilities.
Another resource for senior citizens is the Ohio Department of Aging. The Department works with and leads a network of agencies and service providers that help Ohioans maintain quality of life and independence by taking preventive measures and maintaining health throughout their lifespans. The ODA also strives to ensure that aging Ohioans have access to an array of services and supports that are person-centered in policy and practice, and well-coordinated.
A final resource for Ohioans age 60 or older is The Golden Buckeye Card. More than two million Ohioans are eligible for the Golden Buckeye card, honored at 20,000 businesses statewide. The Golden Buckeye Card provides a pass to discounts and activities throughout Ohio, the card includes the Ohio’s Best Rx prescription drug discount program.
You can learn more about these valuable resources at www.aging.ohio.gov/home/ and at www.coaaa.org.