Below is a press release from the Mississippi Department of Human Services:
Governor Tate Reeves has declared May as “Older Americans Month” in Mississippi. The proclamation highlights the importance of supporting our aging populations while celebrating the role of Older Americans in building stronger communities.
Older adults play vital, positive roles in our communities – as family members, friends, mentors, volunteers, civic leaders, members of the workforce, and more.
Every May, the Mississippi Department of Human Services Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) leads the celebration of Older Americans Month (OAM) in Mississippi. This year’s emphasis focuses on how older adults can age in their communities, living independently for as long as possible and participating in ways they choose.
“Our older Mississippi adults are pillars of strength, wisdom, and experience for their communities. I am incredibly thankful for all that these mothers, fathers, and grandparents have done to better our state," said Governor Tate Reeves. "My administration is committed to doing all we can to help support the continued independence of these individuals as we give them the support they deserve."
This year, MDHS is excited to celebrate OAM with our partners in the aging community. Follow along throughout the month to find resources on navigating Medicare, congregate and home-delivered meals, respite care, long-term care ombudsman, and navigating the elderly simplified application project for SNAP, among other resources.
While Older Americans Month will look different for each person and community, here are common things everyone can consider:
· Planning: Connect with MDHS’s SHIP program to assist in planning and understanding the complexities of Medicare. Learn more about the Respite Care program for caregivers of elderly family members.
· Engagement: Learn more about the State of Mississippi’s Long Term Care Ombudsman to advocate for and protect vulnerable senior adults.
· Access: Apply for MDHS’s home weatherization program to minimize the effect of fluctuating utility bills for older adults on fixed incomes. Connect to the simplified application for SNAP assistance through the elderly simplified application.
· Connection: Get involved in one of the congregate feeding sites across the state. Participate in the senior companions’ home visitation program. Maintaining social activities and relationships to combat social isolation and stay connected to your community.
Connected communities are strong communities. Ensuring that older adults remain involved and included in their communities for as long as possible benefits everyone. Please join MDHS in strengthening our community: Visit https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/adults-seniors to connect to congregate meal sites, home-delivered meals, transportation programs, respite care, and more. All elderly Mississippians and Veterans are eligible for services.
