Each year, the president

issues a formal proclamation during or before the month

of May asking the nation to pay tribute in some way to

older persons in their community. Some past themes for

Older Americans Month have included "Help Yourself

to Independence," "Aging: An Experience of a

Lifetime," "Living Longer, Growing Stronger in

America" and this year's theme, "In the New

Century... the Future is Aging."

Older Americans Month is

celebrated across the country in a variety of ways. There

are ceremonies, events, fairs and special awards.

Locally, Fayette Senior

Services will have a celebration of the day on Wednesday,

May 24. They are currently still finalizing plans, but a

cake is definitely part of the day's plan.

Ashley Glen Assisted Living

is also making plans to recognize older Americans during

the month.

Southland Nursing Home and

LaFayette Nursing & Rehab Center plan to do a double

celebration. They will have numerous activities during

the National Nursing Home Week to celebrate both events.

LaFayette will have an art

show and discussion by resident Mary Willoughby May 12 at

3 p.m. The public is invited to enjoy a showing of her

watercolors and other art created throughout her

lifetime. On the 16th, the Senior Rockettes will

entertain the residents and on the 18th, Bob Barber will

sing songs from the 30s and 40s for residents and guests.

Southland also has a big

celebration planned. Each day of Nursing Home week will

have a different "cruise theme." They will

decorate and have fun events based on the "cruise

destination of the day," per Angie Brown, activities

director.

In case anyone is

wondering, May is also Asthma and Allergy Awareness

Month, National High Blood Pressure Education Month,

National Osteoporosis Prevention Month and National

Arthritis Month.

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