Celebrate older Americans in May with Council on Aging

The city of Dartmouth’s senior population continues to grow, with the percentage of seniors over the age of 50 accounting for approximately 33% of the city’s total population, said Amy DiPietro, executive director of the Council on Aging.

That said, last month the Select Board signed a proclamation officially declaring May as “Older Americans Month” for 2024.

Board Chairman Shawn McDonald read the proclamation: “The City of Dartmouth includes a growing number of older Americans who contribute their strengths, wisdom and experience to our city and our community, and whereas communities benefit from having people of all ages, abilities and backgrounds are welcome and included and supportive.”

The proclamation goes on to discuss the role of the Council on Aging and its importance in creating a community that provides services and support needed to help seniors thrive and live independently for as long as possible.

The proclamation further emphasizes the importance of creating an “inclusive society” and supporting “older Americans’ choices about how they age in their communities.”

DiPietro said, “We have actually seen a significant increase in the number of participants at our center, which has been absolutely wonderful.”

She highlighted how the Council on Aging aims to promote healthy aging and expand its reach to younger older adults, such as those recently retired.

To achieve these goals, she said they are constantly changing the programming and services offered.

While every day at the Council on Aging is dedicated to older Americans, it’s important to take a month to recognize and celebrate the “accomplishments and lifelong experiences of our older adults,” DiPietro said.

“We really hope to provide a positive image of aging,” she added.

The Dartmouth Friends of the Elderly are sponsoring an Older Americans Month breakfast on Tuesday, May 28, beginning at 9:30 a.m. at the Council on Aging.