For more than 60 years, the United States has taken time during the month of May to pay tribute to its wisest and most experienced members of society.
Older Americans Month was established in 1963 as Senior Citizens Month to acknowledge the positive impact older adults have made to the nation. The observance was renamed Older Americans Month following the passage of the Older Americans Act (OAA) in 1965. The OAA funds programs and services that enable older adults to enjoy healthy, productive, and independent lives in their homes and communities.
The theme for Older Americans Month 2025 is Flip the Script on Aging, which focuses on transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. Individuals and communities are encouraged to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions around getting older.
In an effort to build community among those 55 and older, the Raclin Murphy Museum of Art kicked off its Art + Insight series on May 1. Through guided close-looking exercises, lively conversations, and shared experiences, the sessions aim to uncover fresh ways for participants to engage with art and connect with others. Additional sessions are scheduled for June 5, July 3, and Aug. 7.
Explore the following resources to learn more about Older Americans Month and the perspectives of older adults:
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When does 'old age' begin? Public perception may be skewing later
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Older Americans Month reads – A collection of 21 stories about older Americans and aging.
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70 Over 70 podcast – Host Max Linsky talks to 70 remarkable people, all over the age of 70, not just about their past but their lives right now. These are conversations about the big questions we all ask ourselves, no matter how old we are.
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Wiser Than Me with Julia Julia Louis-Dreyfus – Louis-Dreyfus shares funny, touching, personal conversations with iconic older women who are brimming with the kind of unapologetic attitude and wisdom that only comes with age.
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The 20 most memorable movies with older protagonists – From comedies to dramas and everything in between, these are some of the best movies that feature an older protagonist (or two).
Originally published by at weareall.nd.edu on May 03, 2025.