Champion your health for Older Americans Month

Last week, I shared that May is Mental Health Month, but it is also Older Americans Month (OAM), led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL). Established in 1963, OAM is a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving older adults in our communities.

This year’s theme, “Champion Your Health,” focuses on prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging. It encourages older adults to take an active role in their health — advocating for themselves, accessing preventive care, and making informed decisions that support independence.

This Older Americans Month, communities and individuals alike can take steps to champion health and advance healthy aging.

How can community groups, businesses, and organizations mark OAM? 

• Promote OAM through newsletters, meetings, and social media channels.
• Invite community members to share stories and reflections using #ChampionYourHealth.
• Highlight practical tips and trusted resources that support prevention and healthy aging.
• Elevate local programs and events that help older adults stay healthy, active, and engaged.

How can individuals take charge of their health at every age?

• Stay up to date on preventive care and screenings.
• Build and maintain social connections that support emotional well-being.
• Choose nutritious, minimally processed foods.
• Incorporate regular physical activity to maintain strength and mobility.
• Practice daily habits that support mental health and resilience.

For more information and downloadable materials, visit acl.gov/oam and join the conversation using #OlderAmericansMonth.

Also, check out Illinois Extension for resources for older adults and their families at https://extension.illinois.edu/family and  https://extension.illinois.edu/health.

Cheri Burcham, University of Illinois Extension

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Cheri Burcham is responsible for family life programming in the counties of Coles, Cumberland, Douglas, Moultrie, Shelby and other parts of east central Illinois as needed. Cheri’s emphasis is on healthy lifestyles throughout the life span which include family relationships, communication, caregiving, stress management and human development including early childhood and healthy aging. Her passion is to help people to be their best selves and to promote a healthier, independent older population.

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