Celebrating Older Americans Month: Championing Our Health

Celebrated every May, Older Americans Month (OAM) is 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.

At the Santa Monica Family YMCA, there is a thriving Active Older Adult Community who stay active and engaged together, improving their wellbeing in spirit, mind, and body. Our AOA community is filled with vibrant personalities, strong friendships, and people looking to serve others. Through activities like group exercise classes, fun activities, walking field trips, potlucks, and informative workshops, our AOA community stays connected and we deeply value what they bring to our YMCA.

This year’s Older American’s Month theme is “Champion Your Health,” which draws focus to 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.

“Championing your health is about making daily choices that support your body and mind,” said Matthew Takahashi, our Active Older Adults Programs Coordinator. “Small, consistent actions — from preventive care to staying socially connected — can help people maintain their health and independence as they age.”

This Older Americans Month, we are sharing steps and resources to champion health and advance healthy aging. Our Active Older Adult Programs features a variety of offerings aimed at supporting the holistic health of older folks. Check out our calendar here!

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.

What resources are there for Older Adults in Santa Monica, Venice, and LA County?

Santa Monica Resources:

• • Santa Monica Active Aging Program 
  • Senior Transportation Solutions

  • Aging and Disability Action Plan

  • Library Programs
  • Housing for Seniors
  • Mobility On-Demand Every Day
  • Preserving Our Diversity – Santa Monica Housing

Community Based Organizations Working with Active Older Adults:

• • ZoCALO Health
  • Cedars Sinai
  • Providence St. John’s Health Center
  • WISE & Healthy Aging
  • Meals on Wheels West
  • National Alliance on Mental Illness | Westside Los Angeles
  • UCLA Health Senior Care Clinic
  • SCAN Medicare Advantage Plans
  • Independence at Home
  • SMC Emeritus
  • Older Adults Technology Services from AARP
  • Elder-Well Adult Day Program