Ohio Department of Aging
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 1, 2008
COLUMBUS - The Ohio Department of Aging announced today that the theme for Older Americans Month 2008 is "Loving Life, Helping Others, Supporting Communities." Each May is observed across the nation as Older Americans Month, a time to celebrate the contributions seniors make to their communities. The department establishes a theme each year to promote awareness of issues unique to this age group and to help local organizations plan events throughout the state.
"Ohio communities are like families in many ways, and just as older Ohioans are the foundations of their families, they also can be the cornerstones of their communities, serving as leaders, mentors and role models," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the department. "This theme emphasizes that seniors can live full and satisfying lives and make the state a better place through caregiving, volunteerism, employment and family and community leadership."
The department has a special Web page (www.goldenbuckeye.com/oam) that provides information on Older Americans Month to help local senior centers, community leaders, advocates and others plan activities for the month and, specifically, Senior Citizens Day, which is May 20 this year. Resources on the site include an event planning guide, activity ideas, publicity materials, posters and other useful items.
Local celebrations of Older Americans Month and Senior Citizens Day traditionally include awards dinners, picnics, dances, health fairs, intergenerational activities and more. Organizations hosting activities are invited to list their events on the Web page as well. As a tie-in to Older Americans Month, the Department of Aging will also induct a new group of outstanding Ohioans into the Ohio Senior Citizens Hall of Fame, as well as recognize a number of dedicated family members who selflessly provide care for aging loved ones at a special ceremony on May 22.
About Older Americans Month
Older Americans Month was established in 1963 to acknowledge the contributions of past and present older citizens. Every President since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking the entire nation to pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. The observance is sponsored by the U.S. Administration on Aging.
About ODA
The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.
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Ohio Department of Aging