U.S. Celebrates Older Americans Month; May 2012 Theme is
“Never Too Old to Play”
May 11, 2012 | In celebration of May as Older
Americans Month, people of all ages across the nation will come
together to honor the unique impact and influence of the elderly on
their local communities. This year’s theme – “Never
Too Old to Play” – will help celebrate the accomplishments
of older Americans and encourage them to find even more ways to stay
engaged, active and involved in their own lives and in their
communities.
According to a White House Briefing Statement, this month’s
“play” theme recognizes that older Americans are active and
eventful in their communities, giving younger generations the benefit of
their wisdom and experience. Showing appreciation for the elderly
is as easy as setting up a “play date” to help enrich the
lives of older adults.
According to the Department of Health & Human Services
Administration on Aging, hosting a “Day of Play” is a great
way to celebrate the month. Other suggestions for celebration
include:
- Getting physical, with activities like miniature golf or water
aerobics;
- Brain activities, like a trivia competition or playing classic board
games;
- Bridging the generation gap, by hosting a community scavenger hunt or group outing;
or
- Getting creative, by painting a mural or flying a kite
Experts at the Toy Industry Association agree that engaging in play
with the elderly is a great way to build shared memories.
“Intergenerational play is a fun-filled way to foster
relationships, make positive connections and stimulate
creativity,” said Adrienne Appell, trend expert at TIA.
“Toys and games that interest and challenge all players –
both young and old – really bring grandparents and grandkids
together.”
An online activity toolkit is available to jumpstart the
celebrations; free pledge badges, posters and flyers to help advertise
community events can also be downloaded
online. Community members that wish to share their stories via
social media can do so by using the hashtag #OAM2012.
Since 1963, communities across the country have come together to
celebrate Older Americans Month – a proud tradition that shows our
nation’s commitment to recognizing the contributions and
achievements of older Americans.