This past week, an Orange County Government mayoral proclamation recognized Older Americans Month, a national observance led by the Administration for Community Living. Each May, we recognize the contributions of older Americans, highlight aging trends, and reaffirm our commitment to supporting older adults in our communities.

This year’s theme, “Champion Your Health,” recognizes the importance of empowering older adults to prioritize their physical, mental, emotional, financial, and overall well-being — while also celebrating the countless contributions older adults make every day.

There’s so much meaningful work being done right here in Central Florida that deserves to be celebrated, and there is still much work ahead to ensure older adults are supported, connected, respected, and able to thrive.

To all professionals, caregivers, advocates, organizations, and community leaders supporting older adults in any capacity: thank you for the work you do. It matters.

❤️ It certainly matters to me.

I was grateful to be present for this week’s proclamation and am honored to serve on the Orange County Commission on Aging Board. We enjoyed a celebration after, held at the Office on Aging’s Partnerships meeting.

A shout-out to Dignity Memorial for sponsoring the balloons, coffee, and custom-designed centerpieces highlighting facts about older americans. Sometimes i take the people around me on crazy journeys – like a 6AM balloon prep party! 🙂

As a Certified Senior Advisor, leader of the AgeFWD program of The Pride Chamber, and a professional serving older adults every day in deathcare, i believe deeply in the importance of evidence-based approaches, consideration of diverse identities in aging, and empowering community partnerships – and i’m grateful for everyone who invests time and heart to make a difference.