Established in 1963, Older Americans Month is celebrated every May.

Led by the Administration for Community Living, the annual celebration is a time for communities to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of older Americans, highlight important trends and strengthen their commitment to honoring older citizens.

ACL’s 2023 theme, Aging Unbound, offers an opportunity to explore a wide range of aging experiences and to promote the importance of enjoying independence and fulfillment by paving our own paths as we age.

This year marks the 60th anniversary of Older Americans Month and allows communities to recognize and challenge the narrative on aging. Some ways we can all participate in Aging Unbound are:

• Embrace the opportunity to change. Find a new passion, go on an adventure and push boundaries by not letting age define your limits. Invite creativity and purpose into your life by trying new activities in your community to bring in more growth, joy and energy.
• Explore the rewards of growing older. With age comes knowledge, which provides insight and confidence to understand and experience the world more deeply. Continue to grow that knowledge through reading, listening, classes and creative activities.
• Stay engaged in your community. Everyone benefits when everyone is connected and involved. Stay active by volunteering, working, mentoring, participating in social clubs and taking part in activities at your local senior center or elsewhere in the community.
• Form relationships. As an essential ingredient of well-being, relationships can enhance your quality of life by introducing new ideas and unique perspectives. Invest time with people to discover deeper connections with family, friends and community members.

Johnson County Aging and Human Services has planned activities during the month of May. Visit the AHS website at jocogov.org/ahs and Facebook page to see what activities are planned.