Older American’s Month

FSG’s Senior Program Case Manager, Emily Mysel, LCSW, shares her thoughts on Older American’s Month:

Older adults have always been a focal point in my life.  I celebrate older adults every day and strive to provide the support they need as they travel along their aging journey.  I reflect upon the impact they have made on society, the challenging times they have faced, and the ways they have overcome life’s adversities.  I enjoy hearing their stories and helping them review and process the meaning of their lives.  In the month of May, we celebrate Older American’s Month and the importance of community engagement for these residents.

According to the Administration on Aging and the Administration for Community Living, Older American’s Month was first established in 1963 when President John F. Kennedy collaborated with members of the National Council of Senior Citizens. During that time, there were approximately 17 million Americans who had turned 65 years old. Over the past 51 years, the older adult population has grown to 46.3 million Americans 65 and older. It is projected by the year 2060, there will be 98 million Americans living in this age group.  As the aging population continues to grow, it’s crucial that we acknowledge and support their unique needs.

Each year, the Administration on Aging creates a theme that drives programs, activities, and knowledge around aging issues. This year’s theme is Engage at Every Age. It’s a friendly reminder that no matter the age, people can get involved in programs that enhance emotional, physical, mental, and spiritual well-being.  There are many ways that older adults make a difference in our village, and it is important to recognize those contributions.

Recently, four Glencoe older adult residents participated in The Legacy Project—a collaboration between Family Service of Glencoe (FSG) and Glencoe Junior High Project. The older adults partnered with Central School students to share their wisdom and life experiences. Each student then developed a short video highlighting the life of the senior they interviewed. Friendships across the generations were fostered and legacies will live on through this intergenerational exchange.

As we continue to expand senior programs and support services at FSG, we recognize the importance of older adults taking part in activities that promote physical, mental and emotional well-being. It is also vital that older adults are surrounded by a community that supports and strengthens their sense of belonging, purpose, and acceptance as they navigate through physical, cognitive, and emotional challenges.  There are many ways that we as a community can engage older residents through local events, volunteer opportunities, and every day interactions.

For the month of May (and beyond), I encourage you to connect with the older adults in our community.  Ask to hear their stories, establish meaningful relationships, and find ways for them to engage in your life and the lives of other Glencoe residents.

For more information about senior services, please contact emily@familyserviceofglencoe.org or call 847-835-5111.