OAM 2026 – Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities

Older Americans Month 2026

Older adults holding yoga mats stand together beneath the words “Age Well” and “Champion Your Health” for Older Americans Month 2026.

Campaign Overview

Each May, the Administration for Community Living (ACL) leads the national observance of Older Americans Month. It’s a time to recognize the contributions of older adults, highlight aging issues, and promote ways to support healthy, connected lives.

This May in California, the California Department of Aging (CDA) encourages communities to “Age Well: Start the Conversation.”

This year, the Los Angeles County Aging & Disabilities Department (AD) brings these ideas together through our 2026 theme: “Age Well: Champion Your Health.”

Aging well does not happen by chance. It starts with everyday choices, meaningful connections, and access to the right support.

Throughout the month, we’re encouraging older adults, families, and communities to start conversations about what it means to age well and take practical steps to support health and well-being.

Explore this page for stories, resources, and ways to get involved.

Campaign Goals

Encourage healthy aging through everyday actions that support well-being

Start conversations about aging across individuals, families, and communities

Promote available programs and services in Los Angeles County

Highlight the role of connection and community in supporting independence

Key Messages

Aging well starts with everyday choices

Health includes connection, purpose, and community

It’s never too early or too late to focus on healthy aging

Strong communities help people stay independent and engaged

Featured Series: Aging Well in Action

This year’s video series highlights real stories from older adults across Los Angeles County who are taking an active role in their health and well-being.

Through short, personal reflections, participants share what aging well looks like in their lives and how they stay strong, connected, and engaged.

These stories reflect a simple but powerful message: there is no one way to age well.

Aging in Focus: Key Facts

By 2030, 1 in 5 Americans will be age 65 or older
Source: U.S. Census Bureau

By 2030, older adults will make up one-quarter of California’s population, intensifying the need to invest in the critical programs that support them.
Source: Justice in Aging

In Los Angeles County:

• 2 million older adults are 60+
• Older adults make up a growing share of the population, reflecting longer life expectancy and changing demographics.
Source: Justice in Aging

Staying socially connected improves both mental and physical health outcomes
Source: National Institute on Aging

Healthy habits like physical activity, nutrition, and preventive care can significantly improve quality of life as we age
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

What Helps Us Age Well

Staying active matters at every age
Regular movement supports strength, balance, and independence
Source: National Institute on Aging (NIA/NIH)

Social connection is essential, not optional
Strong relationships are linked to better health and longer life
Source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Mental health is part of overall health
Managing stress, staying engaged, and seeking support all matter
Source: World Health Organization (WHO)

Aging in community supports independence
Access to services and social networks helps people remain at home longer
Source: AARP

Spread the Word on Social Media

We invite you to be part of this year’s campaign by sharing your story, supporting older adults in your community, and learning more about the resources available across Los Angeles County.

Help spark the conversation about aging well and encourage others to take charge of their health.

Follow along and join the conversation.