Rayanne Sester, executive director of Mendota Area Senior Services, asks Mendota Mayor David Boelk to sign a proclamation designating May as Older Americans Month. (Reporter photo by Jennifer Sommer)

MENDOTA – Older Americans are working longer, trying new things, and engaging in their communities. Mendota Area Senior Services will celebrate what getting old looks like today as they speak up and out loud for older Americans during Older Americans Month, throughout May.

Rayanne Sester, executive director of Mendota Area Senior Services asked Mendota Mayor David Boelk to sign a proclamation designating May as Older Americans Month. The proclamation recognizes the older Americans who richly contribute to our community and supports older adults as they take charge of their health, explore new opportunities and activities, and focus on independence.

Sester noted that MASS’ “Age Out Loud” themed-events in honor of Older Americans Month include senior safety, advanced directives, healthy eating, and reading with children at the library.

Senior Safety will be held on Tuesday, May 16 at 10 a.m. Lt. Kellen of the Mendota Police Department will discuss senior safety and give some tips on staying safe.

Advanced Directives will be held on Wednesday, May 24 at 1 p.m. Stacy Belski, social worker at OSF Saint Paul Medical Center, will present a program on advanced directives – what they are and why you need one.

Seniors & Healthy Eating will be held on Wednesday, May 31 at 1 p.m. Molly Pyszka, food service director and clinical dietitian at OSF Saint Paul Medical Center, will share tips on healthy eating.

These programs will be held at Mendota Area Senior Services, 1901 Tom Merwin Drive in Mendota. For more information, call (815) 539-7700.

Throughout the month, various reading with children opportunities will be available at Graves-Hume Public Library. Call Connie at the library at (815) 538-5142 for more information on days and times.