LAKE COUNTY, Calif. – May is Older Americans Month, a perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for older adults.

Since 1963, people across the nation have come together to celebrate Older Americans Month – a proud tradition that shows our country's commitment to recognizing the achievements and contributions of seniors in our communities.

This year the theme for Older Americans Month is “Unleash the Power of Age,” and it couldn’t be more fitting.

Older Americans are active, productive, influential members of society, sharing wisdom, essential talents, and life experience with their families, neighbors and friends.

The Area Agency on Aging pays tribute to seniors each year – especially during the month of May – and affirms the accomplishments and skills of older adults living in Lake and Mendocino counties.

As the baby boomers reach retirement age, our communities have increased their efforts to provide meaningful opportunities for older adults – many of whom remain socially and physically active through their 80s and beyond.

Current trends show that people over age 60 account for an ever-growing percentage of volunteers in community service positions, faith-based organizations, online social networking as well as arts and recreational groups.

Lifelong participation in creative, social and physical activities has proven health benefits including retaining mobility, muscle mass and cognitive abilities.

But older adults are not the only ones who benefit from their engagement in community life. Studies show their interactions with friends, family and neighbors across generations enrich the lives of everyone involved.

Young people who have significant relationships with a grandparent or elders report that these relationships helped shape their values, life choices and goals, and instilled in them a sense of identity and roots.

According to the Administration on Aging, approximately 40 million senior adults – people 65 years or older – live in the U.S., comprising 13 percent of the total population.

One of every eight Americans is a senior citizen, and this number is expected to reach over 72 million older persons by the year 2030.

As part of Older Americans Month and in keeping with the theme of “Unleash the Power of Age,” we encourage everyone to get involved with at least one senior and enjoy more playful social interactions such as games, sports, contests and other forms of intergenerational engagement.

Possible fun activities include board games, bowling, cooking, swimming, baking, going to movies, taking nature walks, volunteering with a community service group and reading to young children.

The Area Agency on Aging is participating in the following events and activities during Older Americans Month:

Partnering with local fitness experts and clubs in May offering free and discounted gym passes and fitness classes to folks age 60 and over.
Elder Abuse First Responder Training at Blue Lakes Lodge May 14. The counties of Lake and Mendocino will be officially proclaiming the month of May as Older Americans Month.

Everyone is invited to join in celebrating seniors during May.

For more information contact the Area Agency on Aging at 707-262-4517.

Todd Metcalf is the Adult Services Program Manager at Lake County Department of Social Services, based in Lower Lake, Calif.