May is Older Americans Month

The Department of Community and Cultural Affairs’ Office on Aging kicked off its celebration of Older Americans Month/Mes Man’Amko in May with a proclamation signing yesterday.

Lt. Gov. Ralph DLG Torres is hugged by a smiling man’amkó after the signing of the proclamation for the Older Americans Month at the Office of Aging yesterday. (Frauleine Michelle S. Villanueva)

In line with the Older Americans Act, which marks its 50th anniversary this year, the office will be staging a number of activities for the benefit of the man’amkó (elderly).

This year’s theme, “Get into the Act,” means getting everyone to participate in making their own and other people’s lives better.

According to Aging Office director Walter Manglona, they are focusing on how senior citizens are taking charge of their health, getting engaged in their communities, and making a positive impact in their lives and the lives of others.

They are also advancing the understanding of healthier living and dealing with issues like the prevention of elder abuse.

Lt. Gov. Ralph DLG Torres, who signed the proclamation and witnessed the occasion with some lawmakers, said he is grateful for the seniors who were the teachers of his generation.

“You provided us guidance and direction in life. Now it is our turn to take those lessons of compassion and care and use them to treat you all with respect and to care for you,” he added.

There are about 5,000 senior citizens in the CNMI, according to the 2010 Census.

The celebrations will kick off on May 1 with the annual off-island trip for the man’amkó to Managaha, which gives them the opportunity to congregate and have fun outside of the center.

Three sports activities will be held: bowling, pool, and an interisland golf tournament.

They will also hold bingo games every Wednesday of May, the Man’Amkó King and Queen competition, and a concert on May 8 at the Pedro P. Tenorio Multi-Purpose Center that will see them partnered with the manhoben (youth) for the first time.

“This is the first time that we’re actually going to have the seniors and the youth combined together and do a program together,” Manglona said.

The proclamation was read in English, Chamorro, and Carolinian versions by clients Rosario Ibañez, Margaret Aldan, and Vicente Laniyo, respectively.

“I would like to thank our leaders, donors and everyone who supported our man’amkó throughout the years,” Manglona added. (Frauleine Michelle S. Villanueva)