Lake County commissioners, officials recognize 'Older Americans Month'

May 18—Lake County officials have once again recognized May as "Older Americans Month in Lake County," coinciding with the national observance marking its 61st anniversary.

Each year, the Administration for Community Living, part of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, leads the celebration, the Lake County commissioners confirmed.

This year's theme, dubbed "Powered by Connection," offers the opportunities to explore the role that connectedness plays in supporting independence by combatting isolation, loneliness, and other issues.

"Ensuring that older adults can age in place and afford to stay in their homes benefits everyone," said Commissioner John Plecnik. "Lake County is fortunate to have real support for senior services through the Senior Services Levy and 30 percent water and sewer discount for seniors in need."

In challenging the narrative on aging, officials from the Lake County Council on Aging and Senior Services Manager Alyea Barajas encourage participation in Powered by Connection by:

—Sharing facts about the mental, physical, and emotional health benefits of social connection and how it contributes to overall well-being

—Promoting resources that help older adults engage, like community events, social clubs and volunteer opportunities

—Connecting older adults with local services, such as transportation, that can help overcome obstacles to achieving or maintaining meaningful relationships

—Recommending partners to host a "connection-centric" event or program focused on older adult mentors to youth, peer-to-peer support, or similar efforts

—Motivating professional and personal networks to prioritize meaningful social connections and share the benefits.

"We want to honor the Lake County senior residents who contribute their strength, wisdom, and experience to our community as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more," said Commissioner John Hamercheck.

Commissioner Richard Regovich echoed his colleagues.

"This recognition (of Older Americans Month) emphasizes the importance of health and independence as our population continues to age," he said, "and we look forward to celebrating and supporting our older community members."

Additionally, partner members of the Senior Services Levy Committee this week announced that Senior Day will take place beginning at 8:30 a.m. May 21 at the Great Lakes Mall.

For more information on services for older adults and programs available to help older adults stay connected, contact Alyea Barajas at 440-350-2748.