Ohio Department of Aging Older Americans Month

May is Older Americans Month

Join us in celebrating and unleashing the combined power of Ohio's more than 2.3 million residents age 60-plus and another estimated two million baby boomers during Older Americans Month. Learn about opportunities to grow, thrive and contribute and tell the world that you are proud to be a "Golden Buckeye."

Who are Golden Buckeyes?

Golden Buckeyes are not defined by their age, but inspired by it. They are respected and vital members of their communities who continue to grow, thrive and contribute. They make smart decisions to improve and maintain their health throughout the lifespan. They know their options and seek opportunities. They leverage their power as consumers and expect excellence. By striving for the highest quality of life, Golden Buckeyes help Ohio stay on the leading edge of innovation and be responsive to our growing and changing older population.

Tell us: How do you unleash your power?

You are a Golden Buckeye and we want to know how you unleash your power. Visit our Facebook page and post a short essay, a photo essay, or a video essay that completes the statement "I am a Golden Buckeye and I unleash my power by..."

Examples of ways you may unleash your power as a Golden Buckeye include:

• Eating well and exercising regularly
• Participating in athletic activity or competitions
• Inspiring others through works of art or performance
• Learning new information or mastering new skills
• Mentoring younger generations
• Volunteering your time and talents to help others
• Planning for your future needs and preferences
• Much more!

We will accept essays through May 31. Posting online requires a free Facebook account and the essays, photos and videos must conform to Facebook's terms of service. By submitting your content to the Ohio Department of Aging, you are granting permission for the Department to use it in future promotional activities for Department programs, services and initiatives. You remain the owner of your content and we will not sell or share it for use by any other entity.

You also may share your essay with us via mail to: Ohio Department of Aging, ATTN: Communications Unit, 50 W. Broad St./9th Fl., Columbus, OH 43215-3363. Content submitted via postal mail cannot be returned.

Resources to help you unleash your power

• Lifelong learning - Golden Buckeyes are the fastest-growing educational demographic, and for good reason. Continuing education at any age can improve physical and mental well-being and give you more to contribute to work and volunteer endeavors.
   
• Volunteer opportunities - Golden Buckeyes give more than 350,000 hours of their time each year to help others, and today's volunteer opportunities take their unique skills and interest into consideration.
   
• Employment for seniors - More Golden Buckeyes are choosing to stay in or return to the workforce for a variety of reasons, and many employers are paying attention to this growing pool of qualified, experienced workers.
   
• Golden Buckeye Card - Since 1976, the iconic Golden Buckeye Card has been linking Ohio businesses with loyal and engaged consumers and promoting Golden Buckeyes as a valuable resource merchants can't ignore.
   
• Healthy lifestyle programs - Golden Buckeyes can maximize their quality of life and independence by taking preventive measures and maintaining their health throughout the lifespan.
   
• Successful caregiving - Many Golden Buckeyes are caregivers to family members, friends or neighbors who need help to live at home and maintain their independence. Individuals who recognize themselves as caregivers and seek appropriate assistance are more successful in their caregiver roles.
   
• War Era Story Project - Golden Buckeyes have lived lives full of trials and triumph, pain and joy, success and failure. When they share their insights on life and living, they leave a lasting legacy.
   
• Senior Centers - Ohio's more than 450 senior centers are like snowflakes, each one tailored to the interests of the Golden Buckeyes in its community. Find opportunities for engagement, entertainment, learning and more at your local center.
   
• Area agencies on aging - Your area agency on aging helps Golden Buckeyes and their families make informed decisions and access quality, person-centered services, supports and resources to meet their needs and enhance their lives.

Downloads

Poster (11"x17")

Logo for Web and Social Media

About Older Americans Month

Since 1963, people in towns and cities across the nation have used the month of May to celebrate the contributions of older Americans. The Ohio Department of Aging has sponsored Older Americans Month in the state since 1977. Read more...