It seems every week we learn of some National “day,” “week,” or “month.” Although for many of these observations, some of us have wondered if they were created to sell greeting cards or for other commercial purposes. Often, it is a health, professional, or advocacy organization that focuses a special time to focus on issues related to a health issue, causes, or other initiative.
May is Older Americans Month
Every May, the Administration for Community (ACL), leads the nation’s observance of Older Americans Month. This year, 2022, the focus is Aging in Place, how older adults can plan to stay in their homes and live independently in their communities for as long as possible. Follow the hashtag #OlderAmericansMonth on social media for the latest from ACL, and to see what others are planning!
The ACL’s overall theme for the year 2022 is Age My Way, an opportunity for all of us to explore the many ways older adults can remain in and be involved with their communities. Planning, participation, accessibility, and making connections all play a role in aging in place–emphasizing that what each person needs and prefers is unique.
The federal government Department of Health and Human Services recognizes this month with a list of programs and services. Activity ideas, such as stories, events, and group projects can also be found on the site.
The Department of Health and Human Services also lists National Health Observances (NHOs). These are special days, weeks, or months dedicated to raising awareness about important health topics. Also visit Texas Health and Human Services site to read the blog from 2021 about Older Americans Month.
Other Organizations dedicated to the health of older adults in May
Of the hundreds of dedicated months for health-related observances, below is a list with links to dedicated months for the health of older adults.
- Older Americans Month
- ALS Awareness Month
- Arthritis Awareness Month
- Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month
- Better Hearing and Speech Month
- Better Sleep Month
- Celiac Awareness Month
- Clean Air Month
- Correct Posture Month
- Cystic Fibrosis Month – Worldwide
- Hepatitis Awareness Month – Worldwide
- Huntington’s Disease Awareness Month
- Multiple Sclerosis Awareness Month – Canada
- National Cancer Research Month
- National Crohn’s and Colitis Awareness Month – Australia
- National High Blood Pressure Education Month
- National Lupus Awareness Month
- National Melanoma Skin Cancer Awareness Month
- National Mental Health Month
- National Neurofibromatosis Month
- National Osteoporosis Awareness and Prevention Month
- National Physiotherapy Month – Canada. In the US the term is physical therapy.
- National Stroke Awareness Month
- Vision Health Month – Canada
Disclaimer: This is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all health-related organizations. Nor do we endorse or provide a marketing opportunity for any of the “national months” listed above. The information is provided for your use if it helps you as a caregiver or the older adults(s) who you care for.
We hope this information is helpful to you in the important work you do as a family caregiver.
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