Ohio Department of Aging
Site MapSite HelpContact Us Text Size:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 1, 2007
COLUMBUS - Governor Ted Strickland and the Ohio Department of Aging today officially kick off Older Americans Month in Ohio. The President of the United States designates each May as a time to celebrate the accomplishments of older citizens, express gratitude for their contributions to society and encourage them to live vibrant, meaningful lives. Ohio's theme for Older Americans Month 2007 is "Be Your Best: Body, Mind and Spirit!"
"Seniors are living longer, healthier and more fulfilling lives through personal responsibility, healthy choices and community supports," said Strickland. "I urge all Ohioans and communities to celebrate the many ways individuals of any age can maintain or enhance their physical well-being through exercise and diet, enrich their minds through training and education, and embolden their spirits through volunteerism and community service."
"Older Ohioans can, and do, inspire family members, neighbors and community leaders by striving to be their best in body, mind and spirit," added Barbara E. Riley, Director of the Department of Aging. "Aging actively is a choice. Only by making certain life style choices can we truly be our best."
The Department of Aging encourages communities, senior centers, organizations and individuals to organize public events to celebrate Older Americans Month and, in particular, Senior Citizens Day, which is May 15. Local events vary, but traditionally include health fairs, awards luncheons and dinners, dances, outings, day trips and more. The department has created a special Web page that lists activities from all over the state, throughout the month. Visit www.goldenbuckeye.com/oam/ to find an event near you or list your event. The site also includes posters, logos and sample materials to help organizations plan and promote celebrations.
About Older Americans Month
Older Americans Month was established in 1963 and is sponsored nationally by the U.S. Administration on Aging. The Ohio Department of Aging supports the statewide observation in cooperation with Area Agencies on Aging, local senior centers and the entire aging network.
Learn more about Older Americans Month
About ODA
The Ohio Department of Aging serves and represents two million Ohioans age 60 and older. The Department advocates for the needs of all older citizens, with an emphasis on improving the quality of life for older Ohioans, helping them live active, healthy and independent lives, and promoting positive attitudes toward aging and older people. The Department provides services to older Ohioans through 12 area agencies on aging, home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman and the Golden Buckeye Card. For more information, visit www.goldenbuckeye.com.
Contact:
Online Contact Form…
Ohio Department of Aging