Delaware County Celebrates May as Older Americans Month

Released: May 3, 2022

Each May, Delaware County Council embraces the opportunity to celebrate National Older Americans Month and shine a spotlight on the contributions of older residents across the County.

Nearly one in every five County residents is a senior. County Council recognizes the contributions of seniors to businesses, volunteer organizations, veterans’ groups, places of worship, schools, and many other valuable organizations where they invest their time. More than ever before, older Americans are working longer and engaging in their communities. Seniors are striving for wellness, focusing on independence, and advocating for themselves and others.

Older Americans Month was first created by President John F. Kennedy in May of 1963, a national month of recognition to be held each May to celebrate the vitality and achievements of older adults. The 2022 theme is “Age My Way,” an opportunity to explore the many ways older adults can remain in and be involved with their communities, living independently for as long as possible and participating in ways they choose. Aging is unique for everyone; however, older residents are encouraged to consider some key elements to enhance their quality of life:

• 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.

During the month of May, County Council encourages seniors to attend a variety of events hosted by the County Office of Services for the Aging (COSA).

On Friday, May 6, from 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. at Harrah’s Philadelphia Casino and Racetrack in Chester, COSA is hosting the annual Celebrate Age Senior Living Expo. The Expo is free and features entertainment, vendors, giveaways, raffles, refreshments, and even COVID-19 vaccinations doses and boosters.

On Monday, May 16, Delaware County Council and COSA will honor residents 100 years of age and older at the annual Centenarian Luncheon to be held at the Drexelbrook Banquet Center. Any resident turning age 100 or older in 2022 is invited to attend with a guest for free (additional guests are welcome with the purchase of tickets for $25 per individual). Centenarians can register by contacting Debbie Hedgepeth at (610) 872-1406.

On Friday, May 20, and running for six weeks through June 24, COSA and the Delaware County Department of Parks and Recreation will be offering the free Steps to Healthy Living: Chronic Disease Self-Management Program. This acclaimed, evidence-based program, developed at Stanford University, provides participants with self-care tools and life skills to support them in reaching their personal goals to manage their chronic conditions. The program will meet at the Redwood Center in Upland Park in Brookhaven on Fridays from 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. Space is limited, and registration is required. To register, contact Ellen Williams, Health and Wellness Program Manager, at williamse@co.delaware.pa.us or call (610) 499-1937.

Finally, May 31 is the deadline for registration for the Delaware County’s 2022 Senior Games, scheduled to be held from Monday, June 13 through Friday, June 24. All Delaware County residents aged 50 and over are invited to participate. Pickleball, bocce, bowling, corn hole, shuffleboard, table tennis, swimming and track & field—even Wii bowling— are just some of the events that will be held! Light-hearted competition, an opportunity to connect with friends and your Delco neighbors, and an awards banquet are just some of the reasons to come out and participate. For more information and registration forms, visit delcoseniorgames.org or call (610) 490-1300.

Information on all COSA programs, events, and resources can be found on the COSA website at https://www.delcosa.org/.