Celebrate Older Americans Month with the Cambridge Council on Aging

A message from Susan Pacheco, Executive Director of the Cambridge Council on Aging:

Every May, the Cambridge Council on Aging (COA) recognizes Older Americans Month, a national campaign led by the federal Administration for Communal Living that recognizes older adults' contributions to society. This is a time to reflect on the many ways older adults shape our communities every day. They are volunteers, caregivers, mentors, advocates, and storytellers. The 2026 theme, Champion Your Health, underscores prevention, wellness, and personal responsibility as the foundation of healthy aging.

We often think about aging in terms of limitation, but in truth it is also a time of resilience, reinvention, and continued purpose. Many older adults are embracing new opportunities, engaging in lifelong learning, building new friendships, and contributing to their communities. COA continues to work to ensure that all older adults in Cambridge can age with dignity and connection. We provide opportunities through our Senior Centers for social engagement, physical well-being and enrichment.

Join us in championing the health of older adults at the following special this month, held at the Cambridge Senior Center (806 Massachusetts Ave.):

Grandparents Raising Grandchildren Open House
Thursday, May 14
1 - 2 p.m.

Join us for an afternoon of connection focused on the unique caregiver role of a grandparent raising their grandchild. support. This open house is designed for grandparents who are navigating the unique joys and challenges of raising grandchildren. Learn about local resources, meet others on a similar journey, and feel encouraged.

Discussion facilitated by Susan Pacheco, Executive Director, Cambridge Council on Aging and Nina Cohen, Senior Director of Caregiver and Family Support Services, Somerville Cambridge Elder Services.

Age Café: Community Conversations about Aging Series
Monday, May 18, June 15, and July 20
10 - 11 a.m.

This 3-part series explores aging, connection, and community. Join us at the table, as we talk about what really matters: purpose, identity, connection, and the beauty of growing older. Come share your voice.

Conversation will be facilitated by Mary Kowalczuk, Manager, Mental & Behavioral Health Promotion, Cambridge Public Health Department and Susan Pacheco, Executive Director, Cambridge Council on Aging.

Resilience through Reading
Thursday, May 21
1 - 2 p.m.
Registration is appreciated. To register, call 617-349-6220.

For some of us, resilience comes from learning something new or from revisiting a well-loved story. Reading reminds us that even in the hardest moments, growth is still possible and the turning of those pages helps us to turn toward hope once again. Does this resonate with you? If so, join us for a discussion.

A sampling of selected books: The Hill We Climb and Call Us What We Carry by Amanda Gorman; Gospel of Freedom by Jonathan Rieder; Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown. Or share a favorite reading; poem or song of yours. Limited copies of the selected books are available.

Discussion facilitated by Susan Pacheco and Maryellen McEleney, Information & Referral Specialist/SHINE Counselor.