In 1988, Aug. 21 was deemed National Seniors Day by President Ronald Reagan. This annual day of appreciation is designed to recognize the contributions of older adults within our communities and life. According to Reagan, “Throughout our history, older people have achieved much for our families, our communities and our country. That remains true today, and gives us ample reason this year to reserve a special day in honor of the senior citizens who mean so much to our land.” So do not forget the older adults that matter to you, whether it be a friend, family member or co-worker. Take a moment to make sure they are doing okay.

August is also considered National Wellness Month. As we all know, there is much more to staying healthy and well while aging than just being physically active. Yes, physical prevention helps but it is not the only thing to matter. Typically, physical movement, emotional fulfillment, mental stimulation and social wellness are all essential in maintaining a strong and healthy well-being. And sometimes, our physical limitations may make us feel like we are facing obstacles beyond what we are able to cope with. But one thing we do not want to lose in these sometimes challenging situations is our voice. Unfortunately, as we age, some of us tend to have a less active role in our wellness or care. We need to have a say. Make sure our wants, needs and opinions are heard because they matter.

Spend time with the people that matter to you. Socialize, offer assistance or just take a moment to spread joy. Little things like asking “How are you?” and waiting and caring about the response are just some ways to let those that have made a difference in our lives know they still matter to us. Whether we ourselves fall in the category of older adults or the people we love and respect do, we need to remember to check on those that may think they’ve been forgotten. National Seniors Day and National Wellness Month may take place in the month of August, but let’s try to remember to check on those in our lives beyond that. Kindness matters and to those that may feel lost or alone, it can make a huge difference to hear that someone cares.

Also, if you are out at the Canfield Fair next week, be sure to stop in the medical building. They always have information from local agencies, vendors and doctors, with special screenings and blood pressure checks set up. And stop in to visit our agency, Direction Home of Eastern Ohio. We will have volunteers and information readily available. On the morning of Wednesday, Aug. 27, you will have access to Lisa Dalga from the Senior Medicare Patrol, Susan Saunders from Ohio Senior Health Insurance Information Program and Jen Adams, a long-term care consultant. All are excellent resources that can help you or someone you love.

Mallory Wiand is the Wellness and HEAP coordinator at Direction Home of Eastern Ohio. Contact the office at 330-505-2300 for information regarding senior-based services and opportunities in the Mahoning Valley.