Ohio Department of Aging
05/01/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 05/01/2024 13:53
Ohio Department of Aging celebrates Older Americans Month 2024
COLUMBUS, Ohio - The Ohio Department of Aging (ODA) will recognize Older Americans Month in May 2024, celebrating the 2.8 million Ohioans ages 60 and older and the many ways they contribute to, support, and benefit from their communities.
This year is the 61st anniversary of Older Americans Month. The theme in 2024, established by the U.S. Administration for Community Living (ACL) is "Powered by Connection," which showcases the profound impact that meaningful relationships and social connections have on our health and well-being.
"In Ohio, we're redefining what it means to age - pioneering innovative programs and solutions that bring people together," said Governor Mike DeWine. "We're empowering older Ohioans to remain healthy and active contributors to their communities well past retirement age. We're investing in new spaces for older Ohioans to gather while receiving care and we're using technology to connect older adults and their caregivers with people and resources to help them thrive."
WATCH: Governor Mike DeWine celebrates Older Americans Month 2024
"More older adults in Ohio are being empowered to live their best lives and age in their preferred environment - often surrounded by family and friends in the communities they love," said ODA Director Ursel J. McElroy. "This year's Older Americans Month theme aligns perfectly with our agency's efforts to build even more opportunities for connection among the people we serve as part of achieving our vision of making Ohio the best place to age in the nation."
In the past year, ODA launched its Healthy Aging Grants program, began an expansion of the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE), and invested in a revitalization of adult day services - all of which are empowering older adults to preserve their independence and remain active in their communities, while receiving the supports they need in their preferred setting.
Governor DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted issued a proclamation in recognition of the annual celebration.
Older Americans Month also honors the thousands of family caregivers, frontline workers, advocates, volunteers, and others who make up Ohio's aging network.
As a further offering for Older Americans Month 2024, ODA is launching a weekly webinar series to educate State of Ohio employees on various aspects of caring for an older loved one in their lives.
These webinars will take place each Friday in May, beginning at 10 a.m. Webinars will be held on the following topics:
- May 3:When Someone You Love Has Alzheimer's | This session will delve into understanding Alzheimer's disease, offering guidance on compassionate care, and providing strategies to support loved ones affected by this condition.
- May 10:Helping Your Senior Loved One Be Independent and Safe | Focus on empowering older adults to maintain their independence while ensuring their safety. Learn about tools and methods to help seniors live securely and confidently.
- May 17:The Sandwich Generation: Balancing Your Personal Life with the Needs of Your Older Parents or Loved Ones | Addressing the challenges faced by the "Sandwich Generation," this training will offer insights into managing the dual responsibilities of caring for aging parents while nurturing one's own personal and family life.
- May 24:Understanding How Your Emotions Impact Interactions with Older Loved Ones | Explore the emotional dynamics in caregiving relationships. This session aims to enhance understanding of personal emotions and their effects on caregiving interactions.
- May 31:Caring from a Distance | Concluding the series, this session will provide strategies for effectively caring for older adults from afar, ensuring they receive the love and support they need, regardless of the physical distance.
People ages 60 and older are among the fastest growing populations in Ohio and make up nearly one quarter of the state's population. ODA strives to empower all Ohioans to live longer, healthier lives, with dignity and autonomy. To learn more about ways you and your loved ones can age well, visit Aging.Ohio.gov.
To learn about Older Americans Month celebrations in your community, or to access services and supports near you, contact your area agency on aging by visiting Aging.Ohio.gov/Find-Services or by calling 1-866-246-5678.
Throughout Older Americans Month, ODA and ACL are encouraging older adults to share what connection means to them with the hashtag #PoweredByConnection on social media.
About ODA - The Ohio Department of Aging serves and advocates for the needs of Ohioans age 60 and older, as well as their families, caregivers and communities. Programs include home and community based long-term supports and services, as well as initiatives to promote health and wellness throughout the lifespan. Learn more at Aging.Ohio.gov.