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Flip the Script on Aging
Older Americans Month (OAM) is a time to honor the invaluable contributions of older adults, spotlight emerging aging trends, and renew our commitment to supporting and empowering this vital part of our community.
The 2025 theme, Flip the Script on Aging, focuses on transforming how society perceives, talks about, and approaches aging. It encourages individuals and communities to challenge stereotypes and dispel misconceptions. This year, let’s honor older adults’ contributions, exploring the many opportunities for staying active and engaged as we age, and highlighting the opportunities for purpose, exploration, and connection that come with aging.
Flip the Script with Us on Tuesdays
Join NorthWest Senior and Disability services (NWSDS) virtually every Tuesday, from 1-2pm, in the month of May as we highlight this theme with an inspirational speaker series event, presented by AARP, that will focus on reshaping the barriers of aging! Enjoy hearing about these topics:
- May 6: Social Security
- May 13: Fighting Fraud
- May 20: HomeFit
- May 27: Brain Health
Sign up to join the webinars below by filling out the form for each webinar you would like to attend. An email will be sent to you with the information you need and an option to add the event to your calendar (be sure to check your junk mail if you don’t see it in your inbox immediately!)
How Tai Chi Empowers Older Adults
Aging doesn’t mean slowing down — it can mean moving with more grace, strength, and purpose than ever before. Across communities, older adults are flipping the script on aging by embracing Tai Chi, an ancient practice that offers powerful health benefits for both the body and mind.
Tai Chi, often described as “meditation in motion,” combines slow, deliberate movements, gentle stretching, and deep breathing. It’s easy to see why it has become a favorite for older adults who want to stay active and vibrant.
Benefits of Tai Chi for Older Adults
- Improves Balance and Reduces Fall Risk
Falls are a major health concern for older adults. Studies show that Tai Chi can significantly improve balance and stability, helping to reduce the risk of falls by up to 50% (CDC, 2022). - Enhances Strength and Flexibility
Despite its gentle appearance, Tai Chi strengthens muscles, improves flexibility, and supports better posture — all crucial for maintaining independence and daily functioning (Harvard Health Publishing, 2022). - Supports Heart Health
Research has found that Tai Chi can help lower blood pressure, improve cardiovascular fitness, and promote overall heart health (Mayo Clinic, 2023). - Boosts Mental Well-Being
Tai Chi is not only good for the body — it’s powerful for the mind. Practicing Tai Chi can reduce symptoms of anxiety, depression, and stress, helping older adults stay mentally sharp and emotionally balanced (National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, 2021). - Increases Social Connection
Group Tai Chi classes foster community and camaraderie, which are vital for combating loneliness and supporting mental health as people age (American Psychological Association, 2021).
How does Tai Chi Flip the Script on Aging?
Rather than accepting stereotypes about decline and inactivity, older adults who practice Tai Chi are rewriting the story of aging. They are staying mobile, independent, confident, and connected — showing that aging can be a time of growth, wellness, and new beginnings.
Tai Chi isn’t about pushing harder; it’s about moving smarter — adapting with grace, building resilience, and creating a vibrant, healthy future at any age.
If you’re looking for a way to flip your own script on aging, Tai Chi might be the perfect place to start.
Meet Jean!
At 92 years young, Jean is proving that slowing down doesn’t mean stepping aside. Throughout her life, Jean has been a pillar of her community, and even today, she continues to find new ways to give back and stay connected.
Jean spent five years serving as an elder at her church, where she led the Buildings and Grounds Committee and contributed to the Outreach Committee, Vacation Bible School, and several other initiatives. Her spirit of service extended beyond the church walls: once a month, she rolled up her sleeves to help distribute food at the Marion/Polk Food Bank.
Her passion for supporting young learners led her to Salem Heights Elementary, where she volunteered
weekly, helping individual students improve their reading skills. Jean’s commitment to lifelong learning and support didn’t stop there — she is an active member of a twice-monthly Bible study and belongs to a women’s group dedicated to raising scholarship funds for women pursuing college and graduate school. Jean has not only held several leadership roles in this group but also currently serves on its Program Committee.
Today, Jean continues her journey of service by volunteering with Northwest Senior and Disability Services, showing that at any age, there’s always a way to make a difference. Her energy, compassion, and commitment to community are a shining example of how she is flipping the script on what aging can look like — vibrant, engaged, and full of purpose.
Are you interested in getting connected and volunteering with NWSDS? Fill out a volunteer interest form here and we’ll help you find the right fit!
Christine’s Second Act: A New Chapter of Health and Hope
The National Diabetes Prevention Program (NDPP) truly saved my life! After waiting three long years for a knee replacement, my hopes were dashed when my BMI was deemed too high for the surgery.
Battling weight issues my whole life, I felt defeated and believed I would never shed the pounds. With a bad knee hindering my ability to exercise, my quality of life was rapidly declining.
Then my A1C test revealed pre-diabetes status, and I was urged to join the NDPP program offered by Oregon Wellness Network and Northwest
Senior and Disability Services. Skeptical at first, I questioned what more I could possibly learn about living a healthier life. Was I wrong!
Thanks to the Lifestyle Change program, I was able to lower my A1C, shed 70+ pounds, reduce my BMI, and finally get my knee replaced. With newfound energy and a pain-free knee, I dove headfirst into a realistic food and exercise routine.
Years later, I am still reaping the benefits of the program. Friends and family have taken notice of my healthier appearance, and I have become a living testament to the program’s success. In fact, I have inspired others with similar health struggles to join the program.
And let’s not forget the added bonus of fitting into smaller clothes and feeling great in them! The NDPP program was truly a game-changer for me, and I am passionate about sharing my success story to inspire others to achieve the same results.
Does Christine’s Story sound familiar to you at all? Are you interested in the National Diabetes Prevention Program for you or a loved one? Check out the Oregon Wellness Network to see if any of their amazing wellness programs might be a good fit for you!