May 2023

Dear Caregivers,


Established in 1963, Older Americans Month (OAM) is celebrated every May. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is a time for us to acknowledge the contributions and achievements of older Americans, highlight important trends and strengthen our commitment to honoring our older citizens.


This year’s 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.


As caregivers, it is important to help the older adults that we care for enjoy a sense of independence and fulfillment.  

Activities to do with an Older Adult



  • Ask the person you are caring for to share their story or stories. This list has some great questions to help you get started: https://bit.ly/429IM6I


  • If you have relatives who live apart or far away, organize a Facebook event or other virtual get together where the older relatives can share their stories. You may want to gather old photos to help stir up memories.


  • Coordinate a musical event with the family. Music can help people to connect, heal, feel joy and more. Hire a band, let participants show off their musical talents or just play songs and let everyone have a chance to make requests. Consider organizing the event using a theme or genre.


Ways to Promote Independence in the Older Adult



  • Support their social life. Help them continue their regular activities like attending church, visiting with relatives and reconnecting with old friends or groups they were involved in. 
  • Involve them in the day-to-day. Ask them to help plan meals, fold laundry, participate in cooking, cleaning and shopping where possible.
  • Encourage exercise. Help them plan a garden, do chair exercises or join a class at a local senior center.
  • Keep the brain busy. Playing cards, board games, crossword puzzles and adult coloring books all help promote brain health.
  • Put safety first. Prevent falls by removing hazards such as clutter and scatter rugs. Add handrails in hallways and grab bars in the bathroom.


CONTACT INFORMATION
Calvert County Office on Aging
Lisa Caudle, Long Term Care Manager
450 West Dares Beach Road
Prince Frederick, MD 20678
410-535-4606, ext. 129
www.calvertcountymd.gov
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