Flipping the script on aging: Community invited to Older Americans Award Ceremony

Organizers of this year’s Older Americans Month are looking to “Flip the Script on Aging,” aimed at transforming how society views, discusses and approaches getting older.

Kaua‘i County Agency on Elderly Affairs is honoring 10 older Garden Isle residents as part of the festivities during a special free event next month and invites the island’s community members to attend and show their support.

The Older Americans Award Ceremony is planned for 9 a.m. May 15 at Outrigger Kaua‘i Beach Resort and Spa in Līhu‘e.

Older adults from Kaua‘i who will be honored with Older Americans Awards this year are:

• Adeline Sasaki.
• Alice Baptista.
• Carol Saiki,
• Chad Pharis.
• Charlene Dorsey.
• Eugene Punzal.
• Gary Smith.
• Marga Goosen.
• Michael Brenner.
• Wilma Chandler.

One man and one woman will also receive the honor of being selected to represent Kaua‘i on June 13 during the State Recognition Ceremony on O‘ahu.

A paid luncheon will follow the awards ceremony. Tickets for 11 a.m. lunch can be purchased by calling the Agency on Elderly Affairs at 808-241-4470.

The deadline to RSVP is May 9.

Older Americans Month is observed each May. It was established in 1963 and led by the federal Administration for Community Living.

The month is a time to honor the contributions of older Americans, highlight aging-related trends and reaffirm the community’s commitment to supporting its older adults.

This year’s theme encourages communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions, emphasizing opportunities for purpose, exploration and connection aging can bring.

Visit the official Older Americans Month website for additional information.

Call 808-241-4470, visit the Kaua‘i County Agency on Elderly Affairs website or email elderlyaffairs@kauai.gov to learn more about elderly affairs on the Garden Isle.