Reach Out Morongo Basin is recognizing May is “Older Americans Month” celebrating our elders and their contributions to our society and communities. This year’s slogan is “Age My Way”. Older Americans Month was established in 1963, when only 17 million living Americans had reached their 65th birthday. About a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet their needs. In April 1963 President John F. Kennedy designated May as “Senior Citizens Month,” the prelude to “Older Americans Month.”, to acknowledge contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country. Every President since Kennedy has issued a formal proclamation asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. As you celebrate Older Americans Month reach out to a senior family member, friend or neighbor and take some time to just listen to them.
