Georgia Observes National Older Americans Month

There is a growing population of older adults in Georgia and throughout the nation who have a wealth of experience and knowledge who deserve our recognition and respect. A good time to show these individuals how much we care is during National Older Americans Month in May. This year’s theme is “Living Today for a Better Tomorrow.” The Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) Division of Aging Services (DAS) and the Aging Network urge everyone to honor older adults this month by taking time to honor their life experiences and invaluable contributions.

Georgia has the ninth fastest-growing 60-plus population and the 18th fastest-growing 85-plus population in the United States. The number of Georgians aged 60 years and older is estimated to have increased 62.5 percent between 1990 and 2010. Those 85 years and older are by far the fastest growing age group; their numbers are expected to increase by 114.6 percent by 2010.

“As the adult population gets older, there will be greater demands for resources to address health and long-term care challenges,” said Maria Greene, director of the Division of Aging Services. “We administer an array of cost-effective, community-based services statewide for older Georgians and adults with disabilities through our Aging Network and other agency partners.”

DAS provides in-home services, health promotion, senior employment, wellness services, benefits and resource counseling for Medicare beneficiaries and others. DAS is also responsible for investigation and protective services for vulnerable adults through Adult Protective Services (APS). To report suspected cases of elder abuse, neglect or exploitation, call APS toll-free at 1-888-774-0152 or 404-657-5250 in metro Atlanta.

For information on aging services in your local community, call the Division of Aging Services toll-free at 1-866-55-Aging (1-866-552-4464).

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