Celebrate Older Americans Month: Champion your health
Each May, Older Americans Month recognizes the important contributions of older adults. This is also a good time to enhance programs to support them in the community.
The Administration for Community Living, which leads the observance, provides the following information to encourage community and individual support.
This year’s theme is “Champion Your Health.” It focuses on prevention, wellness and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging. It encourages older adults to take an active role in their health by:
• Advocating for themselves
• Accessing preventive care
• Making informed decisions that support independence
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA) is your local partner in healthy aging. “PCA connects older adults in Philadelphia with the resources, programs and services needed to live independently,” stated Najja R. Orr, DBA, FCPP, President & CEO of PCA. “Maintaining good health habits, such as eating nutritious meals, exercising regularly and participating in social activities, can help individuals achieve a high quality of life at any age.”
This Older Americans Month, everyone can take steps to encourage healthy aging.
How can community groups, businesses and organizations take part?
• Promote Older Americans Month through newsletters, meetings and social media channels
• Invite people to share stories and reflections on social media channels using #ChampionYourHealth
• Highlight practical tips and trusted resources that support prevention and healthy aging
• Support local programs and events that help older adults stay healthy and active
How can individuals take charge of their health at every age?
• Stay up to date on preventive care and health screenings
• Build and maintain social connections that support emotional well-being
• Incorporate regular physical activity to maintain strength and mobility
• Practice daily habits that support mental health and resilience
PCA offers a wide range of health and wellness programs for older adults and caregivers. These include:
• Group fitness classes and exercise equipment at senior community centers
• Chronic disease self management, workshops for pain, diabetes and other health conditions
• Falls prevention programs
• Community events that offer health information, screenings and recreation activities
• Healthy meals delivered to older adults’ homes and served at senior centers
For information about programs and services to support older Philadelphians, call the PCA Helpline at 215-765-9040 or go to the website www.pcaCares.org. For more information about Older Americans Month, visit www.acl.gov/oam.
