Celebrating Older Americans Month

Each May, we join the nation in celebrating Older Americans Month to recognize older Americans for their contributions and discuss ways to help them stay healthy. This year, the Administration for Community Living is focusing on injury prevention with the theme “Safe Today. Healthy Tomorrow.”

Older Americans are at a higher risk of injury than the rest of our population, but home healthcare can help them stay safe, healthy, and independent well into their golden years.

Skilled home health offers a wide range of care for patients who are homebound or in need of skilled care, including: post-acute care, skilled nursing care for chronic conditions, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, medical social services, and assistance with daily living.

Since the vast majority of seniors (89%) say they want to age in place (i.e., live independently and remain in their home), we must ensure that they can do so in a safe and healthy manner. Home healthcare can be instrumental in preventing unintentional injuries and unnecessary hospitalizations for our seniors.

While home healthcare provides services, support, and resources to 3.5 million seniors year-round, Older Americans Month offers an opportunity for us to remember and honor the patients we serve and the important role home health has in helping them improve their health today and a better tomorrow.