TRENTON, N.J.—Mercer County Executive Brian M. Hughes asks that county residents join in the national celebration of Older Americans Month in May by honoring and recognizing older adults for the contributions they make to our families, communities and society.

This year’s theme, “Engage at Any Age,” emphasizes that one is never too old to take part in activities that can enrich one’s physical, mental and emotional well-being. It also celebrates the many ways in which older adults make a difference in our communities.

“No matter where you are in your life, there is no better time to start participating in activities that promote mental and physical wellness. I encourage all county residents to think about how older adults in our communities are leading and inspiring others, how we can support and learn from them,” Mr. Hughes said.

Older Americans Month acknowledges the hard work being done every day to provide support, care and services to the older adult population, he said.

Throughout the month, Mercer County Connection is offering programs aimed at the needs of senior citizens. Call 609-989-9800 to reserve your space for any or all of the programs. County Connection is located in the Acme Shopping Center on Route 33 in Hamilton.

On Monday, May 7, 11 a.m. to noon, attend “Why I Choose Home,” an alternative to nursing homes. This federal program’s goals are to move people out of nursing homes and developmental centers and back into the community with proper support.

Thursday, May 10, 10:30 to noon, the Social Security Administration will conduct the program “Understanding Your Social Security Benefits.” As you approach retirement, it is more important than ever to understand the role that Social Security benefits can and should play in your overall retirement plan. Join guest speaker David Vinokurov, Social Security Administration District Manager, and other representatives from the Trenton office.

Tuesday, May 15, 10:30 to 11:30 a.m., learn how you can become a CONTACT volunteer. CONTACT is a telephone hotline, online chat and text service offering supportive listening, referrals, crisis help and suicide prevention to those in need. CONTACT of Mercer County is seeking caring people who want to help their community to take its Volunteer Training Course this fall. CONTACT will be holding an information session for its Crisis Hotline Specialist Training Course, which starts on June 26.

Wednesday, May 16, 6 to 7:30 p.m., the New Jersey Department of Human Services, Division of Aging, will present “Welcome to Medicare,” with guest speaker Mary McGeary, director of SHIP. Learn about eligibility, enrollment, Parts A, B and C; Part D prescription benefits, and more.

Additionally, the Mercer County Library System has scores of monthly programs, many aimed at older and retired citizens. Explore Mercer County Library adult programs at the library.

“Our municipal senior centers, our local health and wellness centers, our libraries, retailers, places of worship and places of entertainment all continue to respond to the diverse needs of our older adults, baby boomers included,” Mr. Hughes said. “And when living in one’s home is no longer an option, those who provide care at assisted living, nursing and end-of-life care centers are there to offer dignified choices.”

The Mercer County Office on Aging funds numerous services that help older adults live with dignity in their communities, Mr. Hughes noted, including home-delivered meals, caregiver support programs, nutrition counseling and education, transportation, socialization and recreation, and much more. In addition, the Mercer County Council on Aging, an advisory body made up of county residents, provides valuable insight regarding the needs of older adults, and assists in the planning and development of senior programming.

Mr. Hughes encourages older adults to reach out to their local senior centers and inquire as to what activities are scheduled celebrating Older Americans Month. He also reminds residents that local hospital systems have year-round programming geared toward issues that support older adults, those living with disabilities and their caregivers.

For more information about programs and services available in Mercer County, contact the Mercer County Office on Aging at (609) 989-6661.