In this section:

National Senior Related Events Jan – Dec. *Consider duplicating with your local events*

2017CALENDAR OF EVENTS

January National Glaucoma Awareness Month

Currently, more than 3 million people in the United States have glaucoma. The National Eye Institute projects this number will reach 4.2 million by 2030, a 58 percent increase. Glaucoma is called "the sneak thief of sight" since there are no symptoms and once vision is lost, it's permanent. As much as 40% of vision can be lost without a person noticing. http://bit.ly/1bdMKtM

National Bath Safety Month

Dedicated to preventing slips and falls in the bathroom. Such accidents are one of the leading causes of ER trips in older adults. In fact, 1 out of 3 adults above the age of 60 have trouble getting in and out of the bathtub according to a study by Michigan University. http://bit.ly/2on2zgN

February American Heart   Health Month

Heart disease can often be prevented when people make healthy choices and manage their health conditions. Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to create opportunities for people to make healthier choices. We can use this month to raise awareness about heart disease and how people can prevent it — both at home and in the community. http://bit.ly/2ivjOvY

March National Nutrition Month

National Nutrition Month is a nutrition education and information campaign created annually in March by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. The campaign focuses attention on the importance of making informed food choices and developing sound eating and physical activity habits. The theme for 2017 is “Put Your Best Fork Forward”, which acts as a reminder that each bite counts. Making just small shifts in our food choices, can add up over time. http://bit.ly/1PPa0Dx

April National Volunteer Week

(April 23rd-29th) National Volunteer Week was established in 1974 and has grown exponentially each year, with thousands of volunteer projects and special events scheduled throughout the week. Plan or attend an event to celebrate the impact of change-makers in your community, and inspire others to serve. http://bit.ly/2neVlKc

May Older Americans Month

The goal of this month is for older adults to be brought together to socialize with the community. The Older Americans Month website mentions thinks like gathering selfies and stories from the older population and celebrating the 2017 theme of Age Out Loud. Subgrantees should feel free to explore various interpretations of this them and find was to expand community involvement with Older Americans. https://oam.acl.gov/2017/activities.html

National Mobility Awareness Month

Many older Americans have mobility issues but these issues need not be a bar to a full and productive life. The National Mobility Equipment Dealers Association has done giveaways of wheelchair accessible vehicles. Subgrantees are encouraged to spread the word about this month and help their participants and potential future participants lead more mobile lives. http:// www.mobilityawarenessmonth.com/

Arthritis Awareness Month

There are more than a 100 forms of arthritis and related conditions and many are not well under- stood. What is known, are the mobility and lifestyle issues that can affect those Americans who suffer this condition. Is your community holding an arthritis run? Is there a local resource to better aid those afflicted with this condition? Please consult this site to begin answering these questions: http://www.arthritis.org/

Skin Cancer Awareness Month

Skin Cancer is the most common cancer in the United States. Subgrantees should encourage all participates, especially those who work outside, to take all proper measures to protect their skin. Re- member, that tan my look nice but it is also a symptom of skin damage. https://www.cdc.gov/ cancer/dcpc/resources/features/skincancer/index.htm

National Stroke and High Blood Pressure Education Month

Stroke is the fifth leading cause of death in the United States and a major cause of adult disability. Many factors may affect a person’s risk for stroke, including high blood pressure. Subgrantees are encouraged to hold events promoting healthy lifestyles and awareness of these risk factors for stroke. For more information, http://millionhearts.hhs.gov/.

Women’s Health Week: 14th -20th

Subgrantees are encouraged to hold exercise class, seminars, and find ways to promote healthy life-

styles. More information can be found at https://www.womenshealth.gov/.

31st is World No Tobacco Day & Senior Health and Fitness Day

Perhaps you could have a reward program for trying to quite that last cigarette or you could encourage local exercise clubs to reach out to your participants and other older Americans. Whatever you decide, encouraging SCSEP participants and other seniors to have a better quality of life is always a good thing. http://www.fitnessday.com/senior/, http://www.who.int/campaigns/no-tobacco- day/2017/event/en/

June National Aphasia Awareness Month

Aphasia is any one of numerous communication disorders affecting one’s ability to communicate or understand language. It is most common among older Americans and most commonly caused by a stroke though any other source of neurological damage can also induce this condition. Subgrantees should be mindful of participants who might suffer this affliction and make all reasonable accommodations. It would also be prudent to direct them to other resources that may be able to assist them with coping strategies. For more information, please consult: https://www.aphasia.org/

Alzheimer's & Brain Awareness Month

It is important during this time that subgrantees learn potential signs of this condition and how to best advise participants to seek help. Any local opportunities to raise awareness of or funding for the treatment of this condition should definitely be explored. More information available here: http://www.alz.org/abam/

National Safety Month

Injury is easy to achieve on the job, as nearly 1300 Americans each day can tell you. Many of

these accidents are avoidable with proper foreknowledge. Subgrantees are encouraged to hold

seminars and distribute literature to aid participants in being safe and successful in the

workplace. For more information, http://bit.ly/1WuTpfZ.

Men’s Health Month

Subgrantees are encouraged to hold exercise class, seminars, and find ways to promote healthy life-

styles. More information can be found at http://bit.ly/24OjkyV.

15th is World Elder Abuse Awareness Day

Sometimes caregivers take advantage of the position they are in and become abusive. It is important to remain vigilant for any signs of abuse and to encourage others to do so as well. http:// eldermistreatment.usc.edu/

July National Minority Mental Health Month

Many American minorities live with some mental health condition. Because of community pressure or personal decision, some choose not to seek help. If some of our participants are dealing with such conditions without treatment, it is important to communicate that it is ok to ask for help. For more information on mental health issues and this particular month, visit: https://www.nami.org/Get- Involved/Awareness-Events/National-Minority-Mental-Health-Awareness-Month

Social Wellness Month

Humans, being social creatures, need a network of people to thrive. Not only do social networks allow us to better communicate but there is research suggesting that the health outcomes of those who maintain a social network are greater than those without. Subgrantees need not use the name social wellness month as such phraseology can be off-putting to older generations. The important thing is to help participants feel connected to other people. Maybe have a block party for the participants or have a day where the local community can become acquainted with SCSEP participants.Even just a few munts having a quite chat and letting them know you care can go a long way. For more information on this month, visit: https://www.takingcharge.csh.umn.edu/july-social- wellness-month

Parks and Recreation Month

This July, discover your super powers at your local parks and recreation centers! When we work

together to further health and wellness, conservation and social equity efforts, awesome things hap-

pen! For more information, www.nrpa.org/july/.

August National Immunization Awareness Month

The risk of Pneumococcal Pneumonia, Influenza, and Shingles is something older Americans have to be especially vigilant about. Even vaccinations they may have already received years ago may have worn off as diseases adapt. That is why it is important for subgrantees to encourage participants to not only get the yearly influenza inoculations but also check to ensure they are still immunized against such diseases such as tetanus and hepatitis. For more information, please consult: https:// www.nphic.org/niam ; https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/events/niam.html

MedicAlert Awareness Month

Emergency personnel only have minutes to act. Medial allergies, blood type, and other questions need to be answered immediately. Thankfully there exists a bracelet or necklace that will let them know some of this vital information. Now working with this month may not be the easiest think as some are reluctant to just have personal information that openly available. They may also feel this marks them in some way. Passive measures such as simply ensuring that our participants are aware of how to obtain such a bracelet and possibly arranging a date when a representative of the MedicAlert foundation can be available to answer any questions or arrange bracelets for participants without them are advised. More information at: http://www.prweb.com/releases/2004/07/ prweb144829.htm

September National Senior Center Month

Many of our participants, present and future, reside in these centers. They benefit from congregate meals, transportation services, and education services. Subgrantees are encouraged to work with local senior centers during this month to find ways of celebrating their mutual aid to the community. For more information, https://www.ncoa.org/national-institute-of-senior-centers/economic- security-senior-centers/

National Alcohol and Drug Addiction Recovery Month

Many of our participants have and continue to suffer from addiction. While we cannot help every- one into their recovery, it is important that participants and subgrantees know it is never too late to find help. Activities that subgrantees and look into include hosting recovery meetings, making sure recovery related literature is visible and available, encouraging participants to engage in activities to help those in recovery. For more information, https://recoverymonth.gov/

Healthy Aging Month-American Academy of Ophthalmology

One sixth of Americans 65 and older suffer from a vision impairment that cannot be corrected with glasses or contact lenses. With our participant population in this category, subgrantees are encouraged to work with local optometrists to help raise awareness of these issues. The more our participants know about what signs to look for concerning the onset of vision loss, the better prepared they will be to care for their sight. More information at, https://www.aao.org/newsroom/observances

Active Aging Week: 24 th -30 th

Initiated by the International Council of Active Aging, Active Aging Week celebrates aging and the promotion of a healthy lifestyle. Subgrantees are encouraged to celebrate this week with such activities as group walks and exercise classes. For more information, http://activeagingweek.com/ FAQs.php

National Employ Older Workers Week: 24 th -30 th

Held annually in September, this week recognizes the role of older workers in our workforce. Sub- grantees should avail themselves of every opportunity to promote recognition of SCSEPS efforts in this area. As an example, convincing your governor to issue a proclamation recognizing National Employ Older Workers week and SCSEP: http://news.sd.gov/newsitem.aspx?id=18297

Food Safety Education Month

Did you know that 48 million Americans get sick from foodborne bacteria each year? Food safety is

extremely important for older adults. Adults 65 and older are at an increased risk of serious

complications from food poisoning, like hospitalization and death, because their weakened immune

systems and changes to their bodies as they age. Visit FoodSafety.gov for more information.

The 18 th is National HIV/AIDS and Aging Awareness Day

Over 1 million Americans are living with HIV and the number is growing. According to the Centers

for Disease Control and Prevention, 31% percent of people living with HIV nationwide are over the

age of 50. Moreover, research indicates that by 2015 half of the people living with HIV in the U.S.

will be over more than 50 years old. For more information, http://bit.ly/1HaZi67.

22 nd is National Falls Prevention Awareness Day

The first day of fall, marks the 9th annual National Falls Prevention Awareness Day, sponsored by

the National Council on Aging (NCOA). Falls are the leading cause of injury related emergency

department visits for older adults, the major cause of hip fractures, and responsible for more than

half of fatal head injuries. The event raises awareness about how to prevent fall-related injuries

among older adults. The official social media hashtag is #FPAD2017. For more information, http://

bit.ly/1IpP4D2.

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October Health Literacy Month

There is a lot of information on health these days and not everyone is familiar with how to interpret for their own needs. Our participants, especially, should be aware of how to best look after their health and understand information related to it. Subgrantees may celebrate this month by hosting health literacy workshops, seminars on how to promote wellness, and encouraging others to spread awareness of issues regarding health literacy. More information at: http:// www.healthliteracymonth.org/

Residents’ Rights Month

It is unfortunate that many of nations older Americans have to have suffer from substandard

and rapacious care in their long term residences. Many are not aware of their rights or whom

they can reach out to for aid in protecting those rights. Subgrantees are encouraged to spread

awareness of the rights of residents in such facilities and perhaps partner with local advocacy

groups. For more information, http://bit.ly/2oOsE9i.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

Observed each October, NDEAM celebrates the contributions of workers with disabilities and

educates about the value of a diverse workforce inclusive of their skills and talents. For more

information, visit http://bit.ly/2pBz9iw.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

According to the American Cancer Society, breast cancer is the second most common cancer

diagnosed in women in the United States, following skin cancer. Our older participants are also at

an in- creased risk due to age. Early detection and understanding of this condition should be

encouraged by all subgrantees. For more information, http://bit.ly/1sdgpkt.

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November National Career Development Month

For those who want to launch new career in their golden years, every ounce of aid we can give is of value. During the National Career Development month, the National Career Development Association (NCDA) encourages its local chapters celebrate with career related activities. Subgrantees are encouraged to work with their local NCDA chapter on events to help seniors who wish to launch that second career. Information on this month and local contacts is available here: http:// www.ncda.org/aws/NCDA/pt/sp/ncdmonth

National Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month

Every November, the Alzheimer’s Foundation encourages people to wear purple to help raise awareness of this disease. Not only can subgrantees engage in this practice but also join in efforts to raise funding. Perhaps by cosponsoring a local walk or ensuring that participants are on the lookout signs of this disease in themselves and those close to them. For more information, please consult with your local chapter of the Alzheimer’s Association: http://www.alz.org/

National Family Caregivers Month

Our Nation was founded on the fundamental ideal that we all do better when we look out for one another, and every day, millions of Americans from every walk of life balance their own needs with those of their loved ones as caregivers. During National Family Caregivers Month, we reaffirm our support for those who give of themselves to be there for their family, friends, and neighbors in challenging times, and we pledge to carry forward the progress we have made in our health care system and workplaces to give caregivers the resources and flexibility they need. For more information, go to: http://bit.ly/1NmHJ8b.

Native American Heritage Month

As the First Americans, Native Americans have helped shape the future of the United States through every turn of our history. Today, American Indians and Alaska Natives embrace open-ended possibility and are determining their own destinies.

During National Native American Heritage Month, we pledge to maintain the meaningful partner- ships we have with tribal nations, and we renew our commitment to our nation-to- nation relation- ships as we seek to give all our children the future they deserve. For more information, go to: http://nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/about/.

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Diabetes Awareness Month

Observed every November, this month is an important time to focus our nation’s attention on the disease and the tens of millions of people affected by it. Diabetes disproportionately affects older adults. Approximately 25% of Americans over the age of 60 years have diabetes. For more information, see: http://bit.ly/2aJazD0.

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December Identity Theft Protection Month

There are many threats lurking to our identities that older Americans may not be savvy too. That is why it is important to communicate the importance of information security to them. The American Bankers Association has provided a short guide on identity protection: http://www.aba.com/ Consumers/Pages/Protect-ID.aspx. A more proactive step subgrantees can take is to investigate if their state or local government offers a free mass document disposal day. Many documents are simply thrown away because access to a shredder and the time to make full use of these devices is not readily available for the individual. Subgrantees can also explore the mass document destruction services offered through UPS if government sources are not readily available: https:// www.theupsstore.com/store-services/shredding

National Drunk & Drugged Driving Prevention Month

No person should suffer the tragedy of losing someone as a result of drunk, drugged, or distracted driving, but for far too long the danger of impaired driving has robbed people of the comfort of knowing that when they or a loved one leaves home they will return safely. Impaired driving puts drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk, and each year it claims the lives of thousands of Americans. During National Impaired Driving Prevention Month, we recommit to preventing these incidents by acting responsibly and by promoting responsible behavior in those around us. Together, we can enhance public safety and work to ensure a happy, healthy life for all our people. For more information, go to: http://bit.ly/1lHwjD9.