FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
May 13, 2008
Tuesday, May 20, 2008, is Senior Citizens Day
Local Events Celebrate Ways Seniors Help Others and Their Communities
COLUMBUS - On Tuesday, May 20, 2008, the Ohio Department of Aging will join with area agencies on aging, local senior centers and other organizations that make up Ohio's aging network, to celebrate Senior Citizens Day. A list of statewide events is available on the department's special Web page, Aging.Ohio.gov/News/OlderAmericansMonth.
"Ohio's older citizens aren't just parents, grandparents and friends; many also are caregivers, teachers, volunteers, co-workers and community leaders," said Barbara E. Riley, director of the Department of Aging. "This special day provides an opportunity for communities to acknowledge the many roles they play and to express their gratitude for the things they do. We also hope it will help our older neighbors realize the many ways they can help their communities and their state through civic engagement."
Senior Citizens Day is the cornerstone of Older Americans Month, a nationwide observation held each May. Ohio's theme for celebrations this year, "Loving Life, Helping Others, Supporting Communities," emphasizes that seniors can and do experience fuller, more satisfying lives when they are involved and engaged in the community.
Communities, senior centers and other organizations and individuals throughout Ohio host Senior Citizens Day events and activities each year. The events range from health fairs and award luncheons to dances and family outings. The Department of Aging develops the state theme and encourages and supports local celebrations by providing an event planning guide, sample activities, promotional materials and more on its Web site.
Governor's proclamation...
About Older Americans Month
Older Americans Month was established in 1963 to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country. Every President since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way to elders in their communities. The observance is sponsored by the U.S. Administration on Aging.
About ODA
The Ohio Department of Aging provides leadership for the delivery of services and supports that improve and promote quality of life and personal choice for older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, their families and their caregivers. Working with 12 area agencies on aging and other community partners, the department offers home- and community-based Medicaid waiver programs such as PASSPORT, the long-term care ombudsman program, the Golden Buckeye Card and more.
