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 the older adults in our communities.
This year’s national theme, “Flip the Script on Aging,” invites all of us to rethink traditional narratives about getting older. Aging is not something to fear or overlook – it’s a natural and powerful part of life. Older adults bring a wealth of knowledge, life experience, and unique perspectives that help strengthen our communities and inspire younger generations. By celebrating Older Americans Month, we help shift the focus from limitations to possibilities, highlighting the value, vitality, and continued contributions of people as they age.
The number of fatal crashes involving drivers aged 65 and older in 2023 was 7,810. That is 19% of all fatal traffic crashes! For help in understanding how to talk to an older driver about transportation safety or concerns you may have about their driving, check out NHTSA’s website. They offer great resources on ways to adapt vehicles to drivers as they age, as well as ways medical conditions affect older drivers and their driving.
