Did you know that older adults are at a much higher risk of unintentional injury than the rest of the population? You can help seniors live more stable and healthier lives by volunteering with United Way throughout the year but especially in May, which is Older Americans Month.
Each year the nation celebrates Older Americans Month to recognize older Americans for their contributions and provide them with information to help them stay healthy and active. United Way, with our focus on helping all people achieve financial stability and live healthy lives, is active in supporting seniors. For example, United Way of Olmsted County is working with computer technology and data storage company HGST to help seniors remain living in their homes and stay active in their communities. To start, HGST volunteers will work with Family Service Rochester and help with yard work, window washing and cleaning out gutters of seniors’ homes. HGST volunteers will also assist with cleaning up and planting the patio garden of The Salvation Army’s Adult Day Program and facilitating fun afternoon activities on Mother’s Day for the physically and/or mentally challenged adults who participate in the program. Still other volunteers will enhance the environment of the Elder Network for seniors, volunteers and staff by painting the organization’s conference room. The Elder Network provides emotional and social support to seniors and their families and helps seniors improve the quality of their lives.
United Way urges everyone to Give, Advocate and Volunteer, but we don’t just “talk the talk.” We “walk the walk” by supporting causes we care about, like helping seniors stay healthy. Some 20-30 employees of United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County volunteer during their lunch break by delivering meals to older people each month through Christian Senior Services Meals on Wheels program. United Way also helps Christian Senior Services recruit volunteers by posting opportunities on the United Way website.
Whether it’s asking for help with improving home safety, getting healthy meals delivered, or staying physically and mentally active, by taking control of their safety, older Americans can live longer, healthier lives. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ Administration for Community Living is raising awareness about injury prevention among seniors. Check out these activity guides, social media tools and more to find out how you can celebrate and support seniors now and throughout the year.