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U.S. Sen. Pat Toomey: Reflect on Memorial Day’s history and meaning

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Wanamie youth lands monster bass

There is an old saying that ingenuity comes from youth, true wisdom comes from experience and experience comes with age. May is Older Americans Month. We have the opportunity to reflect on the contributions of older adults in our lives as well as examine how we can do more to honor them.Older adults have passed down cultural norms, wisdom and talents from generation to generation, and this is still true today. So many of them work and volunteer diligently, without fanfare; they sometimes go unnoticed.We honor those many older adults who have donated so much time and talent by helping others. You can find them busy at area hospitals and other care centers. They provide a sympathetic ear to patients and visitors. You can find them as members of civic organizations. You can find them at local libraries, child care centers, churches and senior centers. You can find them visiting the homebound, as they help with small tasks such as reading the mail. You can find them in our schools, where many work one-on-one with special needs children. And you can find them in our places of worship as they volunteer to serve on committees, organize events and teach the faith to younger members of their spiritual communities.Also, there are many older adults who are raising their grandchildren or foster children. This is quite the undertaking, raising another generation, as most are looking forward to retirement. Thank them and tell them what a great job they are doing. Praise them for their talents. Older adults are a valuable resource. Learn from their wisdom.Other older adults have done these special things before, but now, because of age and health problems, are in need of help themselves. Take time to visit the homebound and read a story or, better yet, share a story. Run an errand or complete a small chore. Visit an older adult in a long term-care center or assisted living facility. Be that listening ear that he or she used to be when alert and well. Send a card, letter, email, small gift or make a telephone call. Do not wait until the older adults in our lives are gone to appreciate them. Instead, honor them now. Start by doing something special for older adults during the month of May.Annette GrellaOn behalf of the Advisory BoardArea Agency on AgingLuzerne/Wyoming Counties

Letter to the Editor: Older adults in your life deserve recognition and appreciation