Getting older doesn’t mean what it used to. For many aging Americans, it is a phase of life where interests, goals and dreams can get a new or second start. Today, aging is about eliminating outdated perceptions and living the way that suits you best.
Take Barbara Hillary, for example. A nurse for 55 years who dreamed of travel, at age 75 Hillary became the first African-American woman to set foot on the North Pole. In 2011, at age 79, she set another first when she stepped onto the South Pole. Former president George H.W. Bush celebrated his 90th birthday by skydiving. Actress Betty White, now 95 years old, became the oldest person to host Saturday Night Live in 2010, coincidentally during May—the same month recognized as Older Americans Month (OAM).
From Indiana, we can take pride in the 20 older adult volunteers who were recognized in 2016 with a Golden Hoosier Award for the significant differences they have made for their neighbors and communities.
Since 1963, OAM has been a time to celebrate older Americans, their stories, and their contributions. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), the annual observance offers a special opportunity to learn about, support, and recognize our nation’s older citizens. This year’s theme, “Age Out Loud,” emphasizes the ways older adults are living their lives with boldness, confidence, and passion while serving as an inspiration to people of all ages.
We have seen “Age Out Loud” portrayed for many years in familiar media: the AARP Magazine, for example, or Indy Boomer closer to home. We have also seen it carried out through organizations like Oasis, or senior centers such as the Mill Race Center in Columbus, IN.
We can use OAM 2017 to focus on how older adults in our community are redefining aging—through work or family interests, by taking charge of their health and staying independent for as long as possible, and through their community and advocacy efforts. We can also use this opportunity to learn how we can best support and learn from our community’s older members.
Join us and ACL as we speak up for #OAM17 and #AgeOutLoud this May! And be sure to nominate your favorite senior volunteer for a 2017 Golden Hoosier Award, with applications due May 24th.
