The Older Americans Month
The Best is Yet to Come
In 1963 President John F. Kennedy created the tradition. In 1980, President Jimmy Carter changed Senior Citizens Month to “Older Americans Month.” Historically, Older Americans Month has been a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country. Every President since JFK has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking that the entire nation pays tribute in some way to older persons in their communities.
“Older Americans are productive, active, and influential members of society, sharing essential talents, wisdom, and life experience with their families, friends, and neighbors,” Administration on Aging website.
The 2017 theme: Age Out Loud, gives us an opportunity to shine a light on many important issues and trends. More than ever before, older Americans are working longer, trying new things, and engaging in their communities. They’re taking charge, striving for wellness, focusing on independence, and advocating for themselves and others. They expect to continue to live their lives to the fullest, and they’re insisting on changes that make that possible. What it means to age has changed, and OAM 2017 is a perfect opportunity to recognize and celebrate what getting older looks like today.
2016 – Blaze a Trail
2015 – Get into the Act
2014 - Safe Today-Health Tomorrow
2013 – Unleash the Power of Age
2012 – Never Too Old to Play
2011 – Older Americans: Connecting the Community
2010 – Age Strong! Live Long!
2009 – Living Today for a Better Tomorrow
2008 –Working Together for Strong, Healthy and Supportive Communities
2007 – Making Choices for a Healthier Future
2006 – Choices for Independence
2005 – Celebrate Long-term Living
2004 – Aging Well, Living Well
2003 –What We Do Makes a Difference.
2002 – America: “A Community for all Ages”
2001 – The Many Faces of Aging
2000 – In the New Century-The Future is Aging
1999 – Honor the Past, Imagine the Future: Towards a Society for All Ages
1998 – Living Longer, Growing Stronger in America
1997 – Caregiving: Compassion in Action
1996 – Aging: A Lifetime Opportunity
1995 – Aging: Generations of Experience
1994 – Aging: An Experience of a Lifetime
---- None
1992 – Community Action Begins with You: Help Older Americans Help Themselves
---- None
1986 – Plan on Living the Rest of Your Life
1985 – Help Yourself to Independence
1984 – Health: Make it Last a Lifetime
---- None
1978 – Older Americans and the Family
