Senior News

By Diane Kittelson, Pope County Senior Services Coordinator

Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more. Just as every person is unique, so too is how they age and how they choose to do it – and there is no “right” way. Parkways Senior Programs of Western Prairie Human Services (formerly known as Pope County Human Services and Grant County Social Services), parallel the theme for Older Americans Month 2022 – Age My Way.

Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the celebration of Older Americans Month. This year’s theme focuses on how older adults can age in their communities, living independently for as long as possible and participating in ways they choose. While Age My Way will look different for each person, here are common things everyone can consider:

• Planning: Think about what you will need and want in the future, from home and community-based services to community activities that interest you.

• Engagement: Remain involved and contribute to your community through work, volunteer, and/or civic participation opportunities.

• Access: Make home improvements and modifications, use assistive technologies, and customize supports to help you better age in place.

• Connection: Maintain social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and stay connected to your community.

This year, Western Prairie Human Services is excited to celebrate Older Americans Month with our Caregiver Consulting services. Diverse communities are strong communities. Ensuring that older adults remain involved and included in our communities for as long as possible benefits everyone. Please join us in strengthening our community: to learn more about caregiver consulting services, support groups for caregivers and volunteer opportunities please contact Diane at 320-634-7837.