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The nation’s observance of Older Americans Month in May is an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions older adults make every day. Around the nation, older adults make their mark, acting as volunteers, employees, employers, parents, grandparents, mentors and advocates.
This year’s OAM theme, “Powered by Connection,” recognizes the profound effect meaningful relationships and social connections have on our health and well-being. According to the U.S. Surgeon General’s Advisory on the Healing Effects of Social Connection and Community released in 2023, a lack of social connection can increase the risk for anxiety, depression and dementia.
“During Older Americans Month, we recognize and celebrate the contributions made by older Texans, and are committed to providing resources and services that support and empower older adults and their caregivers in aging and living well,” said Haley Turner, deputy executive commissioner of community services at the Texas Health and Human Services Commission ( HHSC).
In 2022, The Texas Demographic Center in 2022 estimated 9.3 million people 50 or older live in Texas. As that number grows, so does the need for older adults to have meaningful relationships and social connections.
AARP Texas director Tina Tran said everyone should recommit themselves in improving independence and combating social isolation among older adults.
“Older Americans Month is a unique opportunity to celebrate the many achievements and contributions of older Americans, and to give abundant attention to the importance of helping people fulfill their hopes, dreams and other aspirations,” Tran said. “Here in Texas, older persons are strong, resilient and deeply invested in improving the wellbeing of future generations on all sorts of matters, including health and financial security and making communities more livable for people of all ages.”
HHSC provides multiple programs and services to help older Texans live healthy lives, stay connected in their communities and remain living in their homes as they age.
Aging Texas Well is an initiative to ensure older Texans have a sense of well-being and feeling prepared to deal with changes in their lives. The initiative aligns with the Aging Texas Well Strategic Plan, a comprehensive master plan updated every two years to identify the needs of older adults.
Age Well Live Well is a statewide healthy aging campaign that promotes easy pathways to available resources. The campaign emphasizes making healthy changes using three core message areas: Be Healthy, Be Connected and Be Informed.
Texercise provides free physical activity and nutrition resources to educate, motivate and engage adults 45 and older.
The Area Agencies on Aging provide services to help people 60 and older, their family members and caregivers receive information and assistance to locate and access community services.
Aging and Disability Resource Centers are part of the No Wrong Door system, which is designed to streamline public access to long-term services and supports.
Find more information on HHSC programs and services at hhs.texas.gov.
