First established in 1963 as Senior Citizens Month by President John F. Kennedy, today May is recognized as Older Americans Month.
Two years later, President Lyndon B. Johnson changed the designation to Older Americans Month.
When the month was first established only 17 million Americans had reached the age of 65. Today, there are 46 million Americans 65 and older, and by 2060, that number is anticipated to reach 98 million.
Johnson did more than change the name of the recognition. At his urging, Congress passed the Americans Act, which established the Administration on Aging. The first of its kind, the agency introduced nutrition programs, transportation assistance, federally funded adult day care, legal assistance and more, and it paved the way for the creation of Medicare.
The Administration on Aging and the Administration of Community Living annually establishes a theme for Older Americans Month and promotes the recognition of older Americans.
The 2018 theme, Engage at Every Age, stresses that one is never too old to take part in activities that enrich physical, mental and emotional well-being. It also celebrates the many ways in which older adults make a difference in our communities.
So, if you qualify as an older American, make sure to participate physically, mentally and emotionally.