What is this years theme for Older Americans Month?
This year’s theme is “Choices for Independence”. The theme was chosen to promote consumer-directed and community-based long-term support options that focus on helping older people remain independent. It also focuses on promoting public awareness about long-term care planning. Back to top How does aging affect health? Although advances in science and technology are enabling people to live longer than ever, chronic illnesses such as heart disease and cancer are having a greater impact on the Nation’s growing aging population. Mental illnesses, such as depression and Alzheimer’s disease, also are more common in older adults. Even though older Americans are enjoying longer and more active lives, they still undergo major lifestyle changes, including retirement, relocation, and the loss of spouses and friends. Physical or financial difficulties can make traveling difficult for older adults, causing them to become isolated from family and friends. This isolation can lead to feelings of despai
