Every May, the Area Agency on Aging District 7 (AAA7) joins the nation in the observance of Older Americans Month, a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving older adults in our communities.
The 2026 theme for Older Americans Month, “Champion Your Health,” focuses on prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as cornerstones of healthy aging. Such a catchy theme! But I’ve really spent a lot of time contemplating, what does that mean? What does “Championing Your Health” look like? When in doubt, I went to Google! This is the response I found: To champion your health means taking an active, intentional role in protecting and improving your well-being. Not just when you feel unwell, but as part of your daily life.
Often when we hear about well-being, we think of the basics like nutrition, exercise, mental health and even spiritual health. But there is another factor to consider.
This month, the AAA7 has been meeting with the county commissioners in our ten counties and attending events to recognize and celebrate Older Americans Month throughout our district. As we’ve traveled to each county, we’ve heard stories of senior centers and other community-based organizations that provide not only services like a place to have a good meal, but also community and vocation for a different season of life.
During our visit to the Highland County Commissioners, we witnessed testimony from several attendees representing the Highland County Senior Center sharing stories of activities, including arts and crafts, choir performances, exercise, and more. But the underlying theme to all their statements was community, purpose, and belonging.
Studies continue to show that one of the biggest indicators of aging well is having a vocation. Not a job or employment, but something that gives purpose and brings enjoyment to your life. Whether it be participating in a group like the Senior Center, or expanding activities you love such as gardening, cooking, or volunteering at local organizations, prioritizing these activities is key to wellness. Hearing these individuals talk about gathering for hobbies they enjoyed and being with friends who provide the interaction and support we all need was truly a blessing.
THAT is a great example of Championing Your Health!
For more information on opportunities in our area that Champion Your Health, contact the AAA7 at 1-800-582-7277 or info@aaa7.org. You can also learn more on our website at www.aaa7.org or follow us on Facebook – Area Agency on Aging District 7 – Ohio.
Jamie Herrmann is the Executive Director of the Area Agency on Aging District 7 – Ohio.
This article originally appeared on Chillicothe Gazette: Opinion. Older Americans Month focuses on ‘Champion Your Health’
Reporting by Jamie Herrmann, Special to the Gazette / Chillicothe Gazette
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
