Did you know that almost 30% of Nevada County is comprised of persons aged 65 years and older? (source) Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more. The month of May celebrates older Americans and brings awareness to how people choose to age.

Just as every person is unique, so too is how they age and how they choose to do it – and there is no “right” way. That’s why the theme for Older Americans Month (OAM) 2022 is Age My Way.

About Older Americans Month

Every May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the celebration of OAM. This year’s theme focuses on how older adults can age in their communities, living independently for as long as possible and participating in ways they choose.

While Age My Way will look different for each person, here are common things everyone can consider:

• Planning: Think about what you will need and want in the future, from home and community-based services to community activities that interest you.
• Engagement: Remain involved and contribute to your community through work, volunteer, and/or civic participation opportunities.
• Access: Make home improvements and modifications, use assistive technologies, and customize supports to help you better age in place.
• Connection: Maintain social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and stay connected to your community.

This year, Sierra Senior Services is excited to celebrate OAM with our partners in the aging community. Our main focus is to help our local seniors find resources on aging in place, access to community services specific to seniors, and activities to boost social interaction and engagement.

Diverse communities are strong communities. Ensuring that older adults remain involved and included in our communities for as long as possible benefits everyone. Please join Sierra Senior Services in strengthening our community. For more information, visit the official OAM website.

Planning and Access Guide for Nevada Counties Seniors

Did you know that there is a dedicated website for local seniors? Under the umbrella of the California Health and Human Services Agency, the California Department of Aging (CDA) administers programs that serve older adults, adults with disabilities, family caregivers, and residents in long-term care facilities throughout the State. These programs are funded through the federal Older Americans Act, the Older Californians Act, and through the Medi-Cal program. Check it out: www.aging.ca.gov. Also, check out our local connection points. There is help available 24 hours a day, seven days a week by calling the numbers below:

• Placer Country – (833) 342-5211
• Nevada Country – (833) 342-5211
• Washoe Country – (866) 535-5654

Connections for Nevada County Seniors

Making social connections is important. That is why Sierra Senior Services is happy to announce that our in-person, congregate dining is back starting May 3^rd. The Congregate Meals Program serves nutritious meals to older adults in a group setting with an opportunity to socialize with others. The program also provides nutrition education, nutrition risk screening, and, in some areas, nutrition counseling. Voluntary contributions are welcome, but not required. See our Events sections for details.

Sierra Senior Services is the local Meals on Wheels provider covering the Greater Truckee/Lake Tahoe region. We provide home-delivered meals, and can make referrals for additional support services that empower seniors to continue living independently. Sierra Senior Services is a California 501-(c)-3 Non-profit Corporation · Tax ID 68-0484075 Contribute today!