Our Perspective | By Dawn Simonson, President and CEO of Trellis.
Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce and more. Just as every person is unique, so too is how they age and how they choose to do it – and there is no “right” way. That’s why the theme for Older Americans Month 2022 is Age My Way.
Every May, the federal Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads a celebration of older adults, including a celebration of their contributions. This year’s theme focuses on how we can age in our communities, optimizing well-being in ways that are right for us.
While aging in the community will look different for each person, there is a common framework that many in the field of aging encourage us to use as we prepare for our older years.
- Plan: Think about what we will need and want in the future to help us live with the level of independence we desire, especially important are services delivered in community settings and to our residences. Consider, too, accessibility to activities we may enjoy, including new pursuits. Older age can be a time to blossom and grow.
- Engage: Remain or get involved and contribute to community through work, volunteerism or civic participation.
- Connect: Maintain social activities and relationships to combat loneliness and stay connected to family and friends. Seek out new friends by volunteering or sampling local community activities. Find interest groups online and meet new people in safe virtual forums.
At Trellis we are feeling hopeful as the pandemic begins to wane and we celebrate Older Americans Month. We are grateful for our staff and volunteers, community partners and supporters. Follow us throughout the month to learn about opportunities to work and volunteer at Trellis, enroll in Juniper healthy aging classes and secure advice and connection to services.
