Older Americans Month Focuses Attention on Older Family and Future Aging
In 1963, only 17 million Americans had reached their 65th birthday. It was in 1963 when Older Americans Month was established. A meeting in April of 1963 between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens led to the designation of May being a month to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country.
President Biden says that older adults have always been a vital source of strength and resilience in America.
"During Older Americans Month, we honor our nation's seniors and the tremendous impact they have made in helping build a more perfect Union. Older Americans contribute their time and wisdom to make our communities stronger, more informed, and better connected. They are our loved ones, friends, mentors, essential workers, volunteers, and neighbors. We celebrate their achievements and recommit to providing our elders with the support and services they need to thrive and age with dignity," President Biden said in a proclamation on Older Americans Month, 2022.
Every President since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation during or before May asking that the entire nation pay tribute to older people in their communities.
Older Americans Month is celebrated nationwide through ceremonies, events, fairs, and other activities. Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the country's observance of Older Americans Month.
Aging in Place
This year ACL is focusing on aging in place – how older individuals can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible. This year's theme is Age My Way, a chance for everyone to explore the many ways older adults can remain in and be involved with their communities.
In 2021 the theme was "Communities of Strength." which celebrated the strength of older adults and the aging network. In 2020 the theme was "Make Your Mark," highlighting the difference people can make in supporting caregivers and strengthening communities.
Time to Focus on Older Family Members – Think About Our Own Aging
Every year's theme allows us to focus on older loved ones and how we can celebrate their contributions and support them as they get older. A growing number of people are 65 and older, and aging has many consequences on families and finances due to declining health, mobility problems, and cognitive decline due to dementia.
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President Biden noted that 2022 is the 50th anniversary of the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program, the first federal program that supported the well-being of older Americans through meal deliveries, nutrition services, educational programs, and counseling.
2022 is also the 10th anniversary of the National Plan to Address Alzheimer's Disease.
"During Older Americans Month, let us pay tribute to the seniors who raised and guided us throughout our lives, and let us renew our commitment to honoring their contributions by giving them the fullest care, support, and respect they deserve," Biden said.
American families face the costs and burdens of long-term health care, which adversely impact income, assets, lifestyle, and legacy. Many family members become caregivers due to a lack of financial resources to pay for professional care. The job of being a caregiver is stressful and physically demanding.
Long-Term Care is a Growing Concern
Health insurance, including Medicare, pay little toward the costs of long-term care services. Medicaid is the primary payer of long-term health care in the United States, but the program only helps those with little or no income and assets.
Many people don't consider Long-Term Care Insurance until it is too late, as policies are medically underwritten. While most people who obtain coverage do so in their 50s, coverage is not available to those with specific pre-existing health problems.
May is a good time not only to honor older adults in your life but to plan for your longevity. Long-Term Care Insurance can be a planning solution for many families, giving you access to your choice of quality care services, including in-home care.