City of Santa Fe Division of Senior Services Celebrates Older Americans Month 2017: Age Out Loud

Fraternal Order of Eagles Thursday May 18, 2017 from 1-4pm

Santa Fe, NM – Getting older doesn’t mean what it used to. For many aging Americans, it is a phase of life where interests, goals, and dreams can get a new or second start. Today it is about eliminating outdated perceptions and living the way that suits you best.

Take Dube Naranjo and others, for example. At the age of 96 Dube leaves her house three mornings per week to participate in the hour-long Enhance Fitness class at the Mary Esther Gonzales Senior Center. Virginia Naso, at the age of 102, never misses a Bingo at the senior center and Senior Olympic athlete Leo Kahn, at age 87 continues to compete in the basketball shooting competitions.

Since 1963, OAM has been a time to celebrate older Americans, their stories, and their contributions. Led by the Administration for Community Living (ACL), the annual observance offers a special opportunity to learn about, support, and recognize our nation’s older citizens. This year’s theme, “Age Out Loud,” emphasizes the ways older adults are living their lives with boldness, confidence, and passion while serving as an inspiration to people of all ages.

The City of Santa Fe Division of Senior Services (DSS) is using OAM 2017 to focus on how older adults in our community are redefining aging—through work or family interests, by taking charge of their health and staying independent for as long as possible, and through their community and advocacy efforts.

DSS is using the opportunity to host a free dance to honor Santa Fe seniors and celebrate aging out loud. The OAM Dance will take place at the Fraternal Order of Eagles (833 Early Street) on Thursday, May 18, 2017 from 1-4 p.m. Mayor Javier Gonzales will join those in attendance to read a proclamation and celebrate aging; all seniors are welcome to attend.

“We hope to see a full house,” says Division Director Eugene Rinaldi. “We encourage seniors in the community to bring their friends and have a good time. We are all about staying active and living a good quality of life.”

DSS encourages seniors to use OAM as an opportunity to try something new – whether it’s taking on a new hobby or activity, engaging in our community, exploring new places, or striving for wellness. The City of Santa Fe Division of Senior Services invites seniors to Age Out Loud!