May is Older Americans Month, a perfect opportunity to show our appreciation for older adults, who are a growing and increasingly vital part of our society.

The contributions they make to our communities are varied, deeply rooted and include influential roles in the nation’s economy, politics and the arts.

From 84-year-old actress Rita Moreno to 69-year-old NASA Administrator Charles Bolden Jr. to 83-year-old Ruth Bader Ginsberg, who took her seat as a Supreme Court Justice at age 60, older adults are blazing trails in all aspects of American life.

Since 1963, communities across the country have shown their gratitude by celebrating Older Americans Month each May.

Led by the Administration for Community Living, the annual observance offers the opportunity to learn about, support and celebrate our nation’s older citizens.

This year’s theme, “Blaze a Trail,” emphasizes the ways older adults are reinventing themselves through new work and new passions, engaging their communities, and blazing a trail of positive impact on the lives of people of all ages.

The Area Agency on Aging of Lake & Mendocino Counties pays tribute to seniors each year – especially during the month of May – and affirms the accomplishments and skills of older adults living in Lake and Mendocino counties.

As the Baby Boomers reach retirement age, our communities have increased their efforts to provide meaningful opportunities for older adults – many of whom remain socially and physically active through their 80s and beyond.

Current trends show that people over age 60 account for an ever-growing percentage of volunteers in community service positions, faith-based organizations, online social networking as well as arts and recreational groups.

According to the Administration on Aging, approximately 40 million senior adults – people 65 years or older – live in the U.S., comprising nearly 15 percent of the total population.

One of every eight Americans is a senior citizen, and this number is expected to reach over 72 million older persons by the year 2030.

As part of Older Americans Month and in keeping with the theme of “Blaze a Trail,” we encourage everyone to get involved.

One way to blaze that trail is to donate your time. The Long-Term Care Ombudsman program is always looking for volunteers, as is the In-Home Supportive Services Advisory Committee.

Be a trailblazer! Join in promoting activities, inclusion and wellness for older Americans in our community.

For more information, please contact Lake County Department of Social Services Adult Services office at 707-995-4680.

Todd Metcalf is the Adult Services program manager at Lake County Department of Social Services in Lake County, Calif.