In 1963, President John F. Kennedy and the National Council of Senior Citizens declared May as Senior Citizens Month to draw awareness to relevant issues of the time. The country lacked effective resources for healthy aging, with only 17 million Americans living past the age of 65, compared to the 55 million today. Plus, one in three older Americans lived in poverty, a staggering number.
Two years later, President Kennedy renamed it Older Americans Month, and it has remained a national month of recognition to this day with every president since honoring it in a formal proclamation.
Each May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the country in celebrations, encouraging community members to host ceremonies, events, fairs, speaking engagements, and other activities that honor and uplift older Americans.
Older Americans are the backbone of our nation and our communities. Without them, we wouldn’t be where we are today. But with an increase in isolation and loneliness amongst older adults, many feel left out or underappreciated. LifeCare Alliance works to ensure that they feel seen and that they are treated with dignity and respect.
This month, we invite you to Join the Alliance to support older Americans. You can serve them at Carrie’s Café by leading an event, deliver a hot meal route, donate, and more. When we collectively contribute our time, talents, and treasures, we can make a tremendous impact.
Additional Articles from the May 2024 Newsletter
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