May 8, 2012 > May is Older Americans Month May is Older Americans Month Submitted By Charlotte Hall As large numbers of baby-boomers reach retirement age, there has been an increased awareness of this period of our lives, and a recognition of the richness and the challenges of growing older. Since 1963, communities across the nation have joined in the annual commemoration of Older Americans Month-a proud tradition that shows our nation's commitment to celebrating the contributions and achievements of older Americans. The theme for Older Americans Month 2012 is "Never Too Old to Play!" Lifelong participation in social, creative, and physical activities has proven health benefits, especially as we age. But older adults are not the only ones who benefit from their engagement in community life. Studies show their interactions with family, friends and neighbors across generations enrich the lives of everyone involved. Young people who have significant relationships with a grandparent or elder report that these relationships helped shape their values, goals, and life choices and gave them a sense of identity and roots. In Fremont, On Lok Lifeways and the Sisters of the Holy Family have teamed up to celebrate Older Americans Month 2012 with a variety of activities that are open to the public and free of charge. Sisters of the Holy Family are sponsoring two guest speakers for seniors, caregivers, the sandwich generation, or anyone else interested. The Sisters have also planned a special prayer service in honor of older Americans that is open to the public. On Lok Lifeways is inviting the public to learn about the services they provide seniors by participating with them on three Fridays in May. Schedule of Events: Tuesday, May 8, 7 p.m. - 8:30 p.m. Speaker: Donna Schempp, L.C.S.W. Positive Aspects of Aging: You're Never Too Old to Play Never too old to laugh Never too old to give Never too old to nurture Never too old to learn Location: Auditorium at 159 Washington Blvd. in Fremont Tuesday, May 15, 4 p.m. Prayer in Honor of Older Americans Location: Sisters of the Holy Family Chapel at 159 Washington Blvd. in Fremont Tuesday, May 29, 7 p.m. Speaker: Sylvia Gandolfo, M.S.W., Certified Care Manager Eldercare Services in Walnut Creek Playing with a Full Deck Making the most of the hand you are dealt, and tips for aging well Location: Auditorium at 159 Washington Blvd. in Fremont Fridays, May 11 and 18: 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Come See a Typical On Lok Lifeways Day Schedule of Activities: 9 a.m. - 10 a.m. - Meet & Greet 10 a.m. - 11 a.m. - Sensory Stimulation 11 a.m. - noon - Mariachi Band 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. - St. Joseph's children and Table activities Location: Auditorium at 159 Washington Blvd. in Fremont All events are free of charge and open to the public. For more information about events, call Sisters of the Holy Family at (510) 624-4595.