Honoring Older Americans Month: Celebrating Independence and Aging

May is Older Americans Month, a time to recognize the invaluable contributions of older adults to our communities and families. This year's theme is all about aging with dignity and independence, which beautifully aligns with the mission of Meals on Wheels South Florida.

MOWSOFLO client Junette poses with her volunteer Toni and team member Kristabel from the office of Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick. Kristabel and her colleague spent time earlier this month delivering meals to our clients in Tamarac.

For decades, Meals on Wheels South Florida has been more than just a food delivery service. It’s a lifeline providing nutritious meals, companionship, and a watchful eye to seniors who wish to live independently in their own homes. As we celebrate Older Americans Month, we also celebrate programs like ours that empower aging adults to thrive with respect, care, and community.

Let us take this month as a reminder to reach out, volunteer, and advocate for the seniors in our lives. Because honoring older adults means ensuring they never feel lonely or forgotten.

Meals on Wheels South Florida is a Vital Resource That Empowers Older Adults

Meals on Wheels chapters across the country, including right here in Broward County, tie closely to Older Americans Month because it supports the month’s main mission: celebrating, supporting, and empowering older adults. Just a few of the ways OAM relates to our mission are as follows:

1. Promoting Independence: Meals on Wheels South Florida helps older adults stay safe in their own homes by delivering nutritious meals and friendly visits, key themes during Older Americans Month, which often emphasizes aging in place and social connections.

2. Community Involvement: Older Americans Month highlights the value of older adults in the community, and Meals on Wheels South Florida relies on volunteers, many of whom are seniors themselves, showing the contributions older adults continue to make.

3. Raising Awareness: Throughout May, Meals on Wheels programs often participate in campaigns to raise awareness about senior hunger, isolation, and the importance of community-based services. On May 6th, Meals on Wheels America will be launching a nationwide awareness campaign, and we look forward to participating here in Broward County.

3 Easy Ways You Can Get Involved in Older Americans Month

This year’s official theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focuses on transforming how society

Kristabel, Toni, and Edward (Also from Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick’s office) are all smiles as they prepare to deliver meals to a client in Tamarac.

perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions. [1] “Ever heard someone blame forgetfulness on a senior moment? It reinforces the stereotype that aging means cognitive decline. Let’s recognize that minor memory lapses happen to people of all ages. Small language changes help us #FlipTheScriptOnAging.” [2]

Here are three ways for you to get involved locally:

1. Volunteer with Meals on Wheels South Florida and help brighten someone’s day!

You can help deliver meals, check in on seniors, or help with administrative tasks in the office. It is a direct way to support senior wellness and independence right here in Broward County. Register today!

2. Advocate for Senior Programs and Services

Write to local elected officials about funding for senior programs, accessible transportation, or other issue pertaining to senior services. Meals on Wheels America makes it easy to locate & contact your elected officials here. 

3. Make a financial gift to support Meals on Wheels South Florida 

Any gift, no matter the size, helps support meal deliveries for seniors in Broward County. Together, we can ensure our senior neighbors feel loved and cared for.  Give today in support of #OAM25!

[1] ACL: https://acl.gov/oam/2025/older-americans-month-2025 

[2] ACL: https://acl.gov/oam/2025/social-media