Remembering—and Helping

Okay all you wise owls…May is Older Americans Month, and the theme is “Get Into the Act”. The idea is to improve the quality of life for older Americans, promote health aging, increase community involvement and tackle issues that affect seniors.

This May marks the 50th anniversary of the Older Americans Act (OAA), so it’s kind of a big deal. The Act has provided a nationwide aging services network and funding that helps older adults live with dignity in the communities of their choice for as long as possible. These services include home-delivered and congregate meals, caregiver support, community-based assistance, preventive health services, elder abuse prevention, and much more.

Let’s don’t split hairs over which of us falls under the classification of “older”…I think instead, it’s good to focus on the value of all who have life experience, wisdom, political savvy, and the purchasing power to make a difference in our world.

For example, we mentor. Volunteer. Babysit. Lead corporations and run small businesses. Travel the world. Buy cars, go to the movies, attend concerts and plays.

Over the next 30 years, the 65+ population will be the largest segment.
Adults 55-64 continue to outspend the average consumer in nearly every category. Yet AARP reports Americans 50+ are targeted by just 10% of marketing.
Americans 55 and older are the fastest-growing age group among gym members.
One-third of all internet users in the U.S. are over 50.

We matter. And the older and more frail among us deserve our attention and support. That’s why laws like the OAA are so vital. The National Council on Aging reports that over 23 million Americans aged 60 and older are economically insecure. They struggle with rising housing and health care bills, inadequate nutrition, lack of access to transportation, diminished savings and job loss. One third of all senior households has no money left or is in debt after paying additional expenses.

In 2011, an alarming 27% of older adults living in poverty were at risk for hunger.

There are of course many other issues that older Americans are dealing with. We all should be aware of what is happening in our communities…are seniors going without basic needs? Are there programs and services set aside to help? If not, can we lobby for more? Sure we can.

We can email or write members of congress about specific concerns, hands-compassion which can include chronic disease, falls prevention, and elder justice. More personally, we can check on an elderly person who may not have an advocate—are their living conditions safe? Do they need an occasional help with transportation? Could we take a few hours from our weekend to spend time with them?