May is National High Blood Pressure Month, National Physical Fitness and Sports Month and National Stroke Awareness Month. It is also Older American's Month.

Originally called Senior Citizens Month, the name was changed in 1974 by President Jimmy Carter. The month to honor older Americans was established in 1963. The month is a time to “acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country,” according to Administration on Aging documentation.

Each year, the president issues a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking the nation to pay tribute in some way to older persons in their community. Some past themes for Older Americans Month have included “Help Yourself to Independence,” “Aging: An Experience of a Lifetime,” “Living Longer, Growing Stronger in America” and this year's theme, “In the New Century... the Future is Aging.”

Older Americans Month is celebrated across the country in a variety of ways. There are ceremonies, events, fairs and special awards.

Locally, Fayette Senior Services will have a celebration of the day on Wednesday, May 24. They are currently still finalizing plans, but a cake is definitely part of the day's plan.

Ashley Glen Assisted Living is also making plans to recognize older Americans during the month.

Southland Nursing Home and LaFayette Nursing & Rehab Center plan to do a double celebration. They will have numerous activities during the National Nursing Home Week to celebrate both events.

LaFayette will have an art show and discussion by resident Mary Willoughby May 12 at 3 p.m. The public is invited to enjoy a showing of her watercolors and other art created throughout her lifetime. On the 16th, the Senior Rockettes will entertain the residents and on the 18th, Bob Barber will sing songs from the 30s and 40s for residents and guests.

Southland also has a big celebration planned. Each day of Nursing Home week will have a different “cruise theme.” They will decorate and have fun events based on the “cruise destination of the day,” per Angie Brown, activities director.

In case anyone is wondering, May is also Asthma and Allergy Awareness Month, National High Blood Pressure Education Month, National Osteoporosis Prevention Month and National Arthritis Month.

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