In 1963, President John F. Kennedy designated May as Older Americans Month. Since then, the population of older Americans has steadily increased. To be considered an older American, you have to be at least 60 years old.
During the Kennedy Administration, there were about 17 million Americans over the age of 60. Now there are more than 68 million.
In Illinois, more than 15% of the population is comprised of people who are at least 60 years old. By the year 2030, it's expected that 25% of Illinoisans will have that designation.
Lifescape Community Services assists older adults in northwestern Illinois. Zach Satterlee is its fund development and marketing director. Satterlee, who is 26, says that treating all people with kindness and respect helps build a healthier population.
"We need to realize that though people are older, or seniors, or at a certain age, that doesn't mean that they don't have tons of things to give to society." He continued, "We can all think of older adults in our lives who are still making positive impacts on us personally and in the community."
Satterlee acknowledged that the coronavirus puts everyone in a challenging situation when it comes to checking in with elders while maintaining social distance guidelines.
"We can't give them hugs," he said. "We can't shake their hands. We have to come up with creative ideas of appreciating our seniors."
Satterlee offered some of his ideas:
- Call them on the phone
- Send a letter
- Set up a video call and have a virtual lunch with them
- Send a video describing the positive impacts they have made on your life
- Send them a letter in the mail
- Send flowers
Satterlee said Older Americans Month is a way of honoring and celebrating the unique contributions seniors have made to our country through their families, careers and legacies. And in a time of distancing and isolation, it's especially important to do that.