May is Older Americans Month – a time to recognize the contributions of older adults, reflect on aging trends, and reaffirm our commitment to supporting older adults. This year, the Administration for Community Living has chosen the theme “Flip the Script on Aging”, to encourage us to rethink how we view, discuss, and approach aging. It’s a call to challenge outdated stereotypes and celebrate the many opportunities of growing older. There are numerous, valuable programs and resources to help older adults stay healthy, active, and joyful. Here are some services to support senior citizens looking to stay engaged, supported, and thriving!
Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP)
The Ohio Department of Aging offers a wonderful program that provides eligible seniors with $50 to spend on locally grown fruits, vegetables, fresh-cut herbs, and raw honey. To qualify, you must be age 60 or older; live in one of the 80 participating counties, and have a household income that falls within 185% of the Federal Poverty Level. You can apply online through Homegrown Benefits, where you’ll choose to receive your benefits either on a physical card or through a convenient mobile app. A list of participating vendors and additional resources is available on the Ohio Farmers Market Network’s page.
Local Senior Centers
Community senior centers are an invaluable resource to older adults, offering opportunities for socialization, engaging activities, access to resources, meal services, and much more! Senior Centers are one of the most widely used services for older adults, with more than 11,000 centers serving more than 1 million older adults each day. According to the National Council on Aging, seniors who participate in senior center programs report better health and higher levels of life satisfaction. Senior Center programs have been shown to delay the onset of chronic disease and contribute to meaningful improvements in physical, social, spiritual, emotional, mental, and economic well-being. Many senior centers also partner with other community organizations to expand their offerings and increase access to services and support.
Area Agency on Aging
In Ohio, there are 12 Regional Area Agencies on Aging covering all 88 counties, providing and coordinating essential support and services for older adults and individuals with disabilities. These regional offices lead a wide range of programs, including fall prevention activities, medication safety classes, transportation assistance, caregiver support, and much more! These Agencies also act as a vital link to other community resources, such as Community Action Organizations, Veteran Services, and medical services. To find your local Area Agency on Aging, visit the Ohio Department of Aging website.
These are just a few of the many valuable resources available to senior citizens. Local public libraries also offer a variety of events, classes, and services tailored to older adults. For even more opportunities, consider reaching out to your local extension office or senior center to learn about more programs in your community!
Written by: Zoie Clay, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Lawrence County
Reviewed by: Alisha Barton, Extension Educator, Family & Consumer Sciences, Ohio State University Extension, Miami County
Sources:
Get the Facts on Senior Centers. (2024, August 15). National Council on Aging. https://www.ncoa.org/article/get-the-facts-on-senior-centers/
Ohio Senior Farmers Market Nutrition Program. (2025, April 16). Ohio Farmers Market Network. https://ohiofarmersmarketnetwork.org/senior-farmers-market-nutrition-program/
Older Americans Month 2025. (2025, April 14). Administration for Community Living. https://acl.gov/oam/2025/older-americans-month-2025