Older Americans Unleash the Power of Age
This May is the fiftieth Older Americans Month, recognizing the contributions and accomplishments of the nation’s senior population. This year’s theme, Unleashing the Power of Age, emphasizes the many ways in which seniors today are drawing a new map of aging, beginning with the fact that there is a geometric increase in their numbers. Three years ago, Baby Boomers began turning sixty-five at the rate of 10,000 per day across the United States, at the same time that older seniors are living longer, stronger and more engaged. In fact seniors represent the fastest growing segment of the total population. In Massachusetts, one-in-four people will be 60 or older by 2030. Their numbers alone speak to the Unleashing of the Power of Age.
Many American seniors remain in the workplace well beyond the traditional retirement age of sixty-five and they continue to achieve in their jobs, in politics, in the arts and sciences, and in entrepreneurship. In fact, the PBS News Hour has been following seniors who are bent on starting businesses because they have lost their jobs or because they want to try a new venture. In fact, the PBS NEWSHOUR website offers a number of useful tips and insights into the art, science and inspiration of entrepreneurship. Check out their website at: www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown.
For a variety of Massachusetts job-training programs to help you develop new job skills, click on to www.mass.gov/portal/jobs-education.
The Quincy Council on Aging celebrates Older Americans Month by hosting their annual, week-long Senior Olympics. Seniors compete in a wide range of sports, some of which they have played for years, and some which they undertook later in life. They represent an increasingly fit and active older America. Check out your own Council on Aging or Recreation Department to ask about athletic program for seniors.
Later life is a prolific time for professional writers and musicians, but it can also be productive and satisfying for those who want to answer a lifelong artistic call. Many local senior centers, high schools and colleges offer continuing education opportunities for people who want to hone writing, music, and visual arts skills. Your local library may also direct you to local groups pursuing artistic muses.
Whatever your interest, begin today to unleash the power of age.
