Delaware Kicks Off Older Americans Month with Proclamation

The Delaware Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities (DSAAPD) celebrated the 60th anniversary of Older Americans Month with an event at the Wilmington Public Library on Monday.

This year’s theme for Older Americans Month is “Aging Unbound,” which offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences and to promote the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age. Older Americans Month was established in 1963 and is celebrated every May. Led by the Administration for Community Living, the month is a time to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of older Americans, highlight important trends, and strengthen a commitment to honor older citizens.

DSAAPD leadership and staff joined local dignitaries and aging network partners to kick off the month with a proclamation from the Office of the Governor at the library Monday.

“Older Delawareans are a vibrant part of the fabric of our state,” said Melissa Smith, Director of the Division of Services for Aging and Adults with Physical Disabilities. “While our division celebrates older adults every day, it is a great reminder that this May we can explore opportunities and examples of aging unbound. Age does not define us, nor should it limit the possibilities we see for ourselves. We hope celebrating aging unbound will encourage all of us, no matter our age, to continue to find a new passion, go on an adventure, and push boundaries.”

Older Americans Month seeks to challenge the narrative on aging. Here are some ways to participate in Aging Unbound:

• Embrace the opportunity to change. Find a new passion, go on an adventure, and push boundaries by not letting age define your limits. Invite creativity and purpose into your life by trying new activities in your community to bring in more growth, joy and energy.

• Explore the rewards of growing older. With age comes knowledge, which provides insight and confidence to understand and experience the world more deeply. Continue to grow that knowledge through reading, listening, classes and creative activities.

• Stay engaged in your community. Everyone benefits when everyone is connected and involved. Stay active by volunteering, working, mentoring, participating in social clubs and taking part in activities at your local senior center or elsewhere in the community.

• Form relationships. As an essential ingredient of well-being, relationships can enhance your quality of life by introducing new ideas and unique perspectives. Invest time with people to discover deeper connections with family, friends and community members.

For more information, visit the official Older Americans Month website, follow DSAAPD on Facebook and Instagram, and join the conversation using #OlderAmericansMonth.