Fredonia Place noted Older Americans Month in May.
When you think of the month of May what comes to mind? Flowers? Easter, bike rides, spring cleaning? The hope of sunny days ahead.
The month of May observes Mother’s Day, Memorial Day, Cinco de Mayo and The Kentucky Derby. Did you know that the month of May was Older Americans Month.
Established in 1963, Older Americans Month is celebrated every May. The focus of Older Americans Month is to recognize contributions of older America, identify aging trends as well as to reaffirm our commitment to serving the older adults in our own communities.
In this politically correct era, the adjective “old” has a negative connotation. However,it is felt that the adjective “older” does not.
Did you know that the U.S. older adult population is divided into three subcategories; you are considered to be “young-old” if you are between the ages of 65-74, “middle-old” ranges between 75-84 and “old-old” is 85 and up. Where do you fall? How about your loved ones? Old age should not be universally defined because it is context sensitive.
At 94 years old, Bob Sutehall, who lives in the Assisted Living community at Fredonia Place, and is lovingly referred to as “Mr. Bob”, proudly shared that he rides his bike three miles daily (weather permitting). Conversely, Mr. Bob is anything but “old-old”.
Fredonia Place, Activity Director, Alaina Perry, shared “We believe every month should be Older Americans Month! Declaring our commitment to serving such an invaluable population is definitely a piece of what makes Fredonia Place so special.”
Residents of Fredonia Place sat down to brainstorm what the word connection means to them. Some of their answers included to feel safe, loved, valued, bonding, belonging, feeling seen and heard as well as a sense of community and togetherness. “This was an important activity as so many of the aging population experience social isolation and the adverse health consequences that come along with it.” Perry said.
Fredonia Place is excited to share that they are undergoing a transformational renovation and look forward to sharing it with the community. “Be looking for info on our grand re-opening in the near future,” said Fredonia Place Administrator, Cheryl Sweet.