- Categories:
- Appreciation
- Tags:
- AmericanElderly
- Where:
- United States
- Date change rule:
- Every May
- Holiday emoji:
- 👵
Older Americans Month is observed throughout May, recognizing the invaluable contributions of seniors to American society. This annual observance highlights their wisdom, experience, and enduring legacy. Join us in celebrating older adults by engaging with community programs, sharing their stories, and advocating for their well-being.
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Expected Older Americans Month Deals
Throughout May, Older Americans Month inspires various appreciation programs and initiatives. While direct sales events are less common, many organizations and businesses offer special recognition. Look for local senior centers and community groups hosting free events, workshops, and health screenings. Retailers like Walgreens and Rite Aid often provide senior discount days or specific promotions on health and wellness products. Banks and financial institutions, such as Wells Fargo, may offer educational seminars on retirement planning or fraud prevention tailored for older adults. Non-profits like the AARP and the National Council on Aging (NCOA) will amplify awareness campaigns and encourage donations to support senior services. We will update this page with confirmed live programs as May approaches.
Platform Guide for Older Americans Month
Tag National Today (linkedin.com/company/nationaltoday) and use #OlderAmericansMonth. Share profiles of inspiring older professionals or highlight workplace inclusivity programs.
Mention National Today (facebook.com/nationaltoday) and use #OlderAmericansMonth. Share community events, personal stories, and resources for older adults and their families.
X/Twitter
Mention @NatlToday and use #OlderAmericansMonth. Join conversations about elder advocacy, policy, and the diverse experiences of older Americans.
Older Americans Month Hero
Ethel Percy Andrus
History of Older Americans Month
Older Americans Month was established in 1963 when at the time, there were only 17 million living Americans that had reached their 65th birthday. Around a third of older Americans lived in poverty, and programs to meet their needs were not many. For that reason, there was a growth of interest in older Americans and their concerns. In April 1963, a meeting was held between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens (N.C.S.C.), leading to the designation of May as Senior Citizens Month, now Older Americans Month.
At first, Older Americans Month was observed as an appreciation of past and present older Americans for their contributions to the country, especially those who defended the country. Since then, every president has been issuing a formal proclamation during or before May, requesting all citizens to pay tribute to older Americans in their communities. Since 1978, according to Administration for Community Living (A.C.L.), Older Americans Month has been observed with a different theme each year. At the time, it was Older Americans and their families.
In 2019, the theme was Connect, Create, Contribute — as an encouragement for older Americans to connect with family, friends, and services; create by engaging in activities, and contributing. In 2020, it was Make Your Mark, in which individuals of all ages, communities, and organizations were encouraged to make their marks. The 2021 theme was Communities of Strength, celebrating the stories and contributions of older Americans that helped support and inspire others. In 2022, the theme for Older Americans Month was Age My Way. It’s focused on how older Americans can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities.
Older Americans Month timeline
The month of May is designated as Senior Citizens Month.
The theme chosen is Older Americans and the Family.
Older Americans Month’s theme is Connect, Create, Contribute.
The theme for Older Americans Month is Age My Way.
How Businesses Can Celebrate Older Americans Month
Local businesses can genuinely celebrate Older Americans Month by recognizing the contributions of their senior employees and customers. Restaurants could offer special senior appreciation menus or host themed events that encourage intergenerational dining. Retailers might highlight products or services that enhance the lives of older adults, perhaps through in-store demonstrations or educational workshops. Service providers could offer free consultations or discounts on services relevant to seniors, such as home maintenance or technology assistance. Consider partnering with local senior centers to sponsor activities or provide resources throughout the month.
Older Americans Month FAQs
When is Older Americans Month?
In 2027, Older Americans Month is observed for the entire month of May, beginning on Saturday, May 1, and concluding on Monday, May 31. This annual observance is a vital opportunity to recognize and support older adults.
What is the theme for Older Americans Month 2026?
The theme for Older Americans Month 2027 will be set by the Administration for Community Living (ACL) closer to the date. These themes often highlight specific aspects of senior life, such as independence, community engagement, or the importance of family support.
How many older Americans are there?
The number of older Americans continues to grow significantly, with projections indicating a substantial increase in the 65+ population over the coming decades. This highlights the ongoing need for services, support, and recognition for this vital segment of society.
Who started Older Americans Month?
The observance originated in 1963 when President John F. Kennedy designated May as ‘Senior Citizens Month.’ The name was later changed to Older Americans Month, reflecting a broader recognition of the diverse experiences of aging.
Older Americans Month Activities
Host a workshop
Older adults most likely have so many experiences. Collaborate with your community to host a workshop where older Americans can share their stories with younger generations. Besides, there can be discussions between older and younger persons to benefit both parties.
Host a musical event
Music can be a way to connect people. Host a musical event in your community where people of all ages can enjoy music and perform.
Let older Americans lead
If possible, create an event where older Americans who want to stay active lead the event. It’s to show that older persons can still contribute to the community.
5 Facts About Older Adults You Need To Know
They are online
According to research studies, 53% of Americans aged 65 or older are online.
Four in five have chronic condition
Four in five older adults are facing at least one chronic condition such as heart disorders, arthritis, or osteoporosis.
Only 3.6% are in nursing homes
Reportedly, only 3.6% of people over 65 years old are in nursing homes.
They get a good night’s sleep
It is said that although older adults tend to wake up during the night, they get a good night’s sleep regularly.
They have less stress
According to the American Psychological Association, nine in 10 older adults are doing enough to manage stress.
Why We Love Older Americans Month
It helps us to appreciate
Older adults have made contributions to the country — some of them still do. Older Americans Month gives all of us a chance to honor them for their contributions.
We involve them
The month can be a time for older Americans who want to stay active to get involved with the community. They have an opportunity to lead an event or simply share their experiences with younger generations.
It helps us learn
Since older adults are involved in the communities, the younger generations can learn from them. Their contributions and experiences can inspire.
Social Media Tips for Older Americans Month
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