52 years ago in 1965, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the Older Americans Act (OAA). The OAA was a response to Congressional concerns about the lack of community social services for senior citizens. In 1963, prior to the OAA, President John F. Kennedy designated the month of May as “Senior Citizens Month” the prelude to “Older Americans Month” encouraging the nation to pay tribute to older people across the country and celebrate those 65 and better in age.

As we celebrate OAA Month 2017, the theme established by the “Administration for Community Living” is “AGE OUT LOUD!” This theme calls attention “to give aging a new voice- one that reflects what today’s older adults have to say!” Every year, The Administration for Community Living creates a different theme. For example, in 2016, the theme was “Blaze a Trail;” and in 2015 the theme was “Get into the Act!”

So let me ask you… will you “Age Out Loud” and make awareness to the aging issues across this country? The White House released its FY18 budget proposal which includes historic cuts to- and even elimination of – programs older adults and their families have relied on for decades. One of those cuts include Meals on Wheels. To learn more about Meals on Wheels and how it could benefit you or a loved one, read my blog here: Meals on Wheels!

So, how will you “Age Out Loud?” I “Age Out Loud” because I am an advocate for the elderly in honor of my grandparents which inspired me to start my business named RIDESportation, LLC. RIDESportation, LLC is a non-emergency professional transportation service exclusively serving the elderly (62 and better in age) and school age children in select cities of Northern Virginia offering transportation and mobility management that is affordable, reliable and convenient.

Don’t forget, we all will continue to age and these issues will effect us! I challenge you to “Age Out Loud” and advocate for our seniors!!! LET’S CELEBRATE OAA, POST OUR TRIBUTES TO SENIORS, and CHALLENGE OURSELVES and OTHERS!! I want to hear from you!!!

*Resources: National Council on Aging, National Association of Aging Agencies on Aging, Administration of Community Living

*Photo Credit: Administration of Community Living