May Is Older Americans Month: Champion Your Health
Category: Aging Awareness
Date: May 2026
Every May, communities across the country recognize Older Americans Month, a national observance that honors the contributions, strength, resilience, and value of older adults.
Older Americans Month began in 1963, during a time when there were very few programs and supports available for older adults in the United States. Following conversations between President John F. Kennedy and members of the National Council of Senior Citizens, May was first designated as Senior Citizens Month, which later became known as Older Americans Month. Since then, every President has issued a proclamation recognizing Older Americans Month.
Today, Older Americans Month is led by the Administration for Community Living, which encourages communities to celebrate older adults through events, education, outreach, and engagement activities.
2026 Theme: Champion Your Health
The 2026 Older Americans Month theme is “Champion Your Health.” This theme focuses on prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as important parts of healthy aging. It encourages older adults to take an active role in managing their health, advocating for themselves, accessing preventive care, and making informed decisions that support independence.
This year’s theme is a reminder that healthy aging is not only about medical care. It also includes connection, access to resources, mental well-being, caregiver support, and community partnerships.
What It Means to Champion Your Health
Championing your health can include:
Prioritizing physical and mental well-being
Staying connected with family, friends, and community
Accessing preventive care and supportive services
Asking questions and advocating for your needs
Making informed decisions about aging, caregiving, and long-term support
Using trusted local resources to stay safe, healthy, and independent
ASC’s Commitment
The Aging Services Council of Central Texas is proud to support older adults, caregivers, and service providers across Travis, Bastrop, Caldwell, Hays, and Williamson counties.
Through collaboration, resource sharing, education, and advocacy, ASC works to strengthen the systems of support that help older adults live healthy, safe, connected, and meaningful lives.
This Older Americans Month, we invite our members and community partners to celebrate the older adults who shape our families, neighborhoods, workplaces, and communities.
Together, we can champion health, connection, and dignity at every age.