State celebrates Older Americans Month, “Powered by Connection”
State Agency Press Release From The New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department
SANTA FE – The New Mexico Aging & Long-Term Services Department (ALTSD) is proud to join the rest of the nation in celebrating Older Americans Month (OAM). During May, and throughout the year, we honor the enduring contributions, resilience and vitality that seniors bring to our communities across New Mexico.
Established in 1963 by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), OAM is celebrated as a time to recognize older Americans’ contributions, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm commitments to serving the older adults in our communities. This year’s theme, ‘Powered by Connection,’ emphasizes the importance of belonging and togetherness.
“Being connected is about so much more than having someone to talk to,” said Aging Network Operations Director Denise King. “It’s about having a supportive and inclusive environment where our older adults feel valued and empowered to live their best lives. We invite New Mexicans of all ages to join us in showing their appreciation for all the seniors who continue to make a positive impact on our lives and across our state.”
“During Older Americans Month, we honor the resilience and wisdom of our seniors,” said Bernalillo County Manager Julie Morgas Baca. “Our dedicated BernCo staff, alongside our valued partners with the State of New Mexico and the City of Albuquerque, work tirelessly to ensure our senior centers thrive as hubs of connection and support, enriching the lives of older adults across the county.”
Throughout the month, senior centers will be hosting events that celebrate the state’s incredible older adult population. Some of these upcoming events include:
Older Americans Month Community Event
Date: Tuesday, May 21, 2024
Time: 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m.
Location: Raymond G. Sanchez Community Center in Albuquerque
Details: The event will feature food, music, activities, and prizes. Continental breakfast & lunch will be served. Space is limited – call the senior center directly to reserve a seat: 505-288-2507.
Older Americans Month Dinner & Dance
Date: Saturday, May 25, 2024
Time: 5 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Location: Bonnie Dallas Senior Center in Farmington
Elder Appreciation Day
Date: Thursday, May 30, 2024
Time: 9 a.m.
Location: Mescalero Elderly Center in Mescalero, NM
Details: Hosted by the Mescalero Elderly Program & all Mescalero Apache Tribal Members welcome!
These events and more can be found on the ALTSD website. For more information about Older Americans Month events throughout New Mexico, please connect with your local senior center. To find the senior center closest to you, or to find your local senior center, you can visit our new Senior Center mapping tool on the department website.