Dunedin proclaims May 2025 as Older Americans Month and honors local volunteers

A heartfelt celebration of community and aging took center stage at the Dunedin City Commission meeting on May 9, 2025, as officials proclaimed May as Older Americans Month. Commissioner Steven Sandbergen led the charge, emphasizing the vital contributions of older residents to the community and the importance of fostering an inclusive environment for all ages.

In his proclamation, Sandbergen highlighted the growing number of older Americans in Dunedin, noting their invaluable wisdom and experience. He urged residents to rethink aging, combat stereotypes, and embrace the diversity within the community. “When the median age of Dunedin is 58, we all need to think about our lifestyle and the intergenerational commitment to ourselves and to our community,” he stated.

The theme for this year’s Older Americans Month, “Flip the Script on Aging,” encourages communities to challenge misconceptions about aging. Brett Montenay, the recreation coordinator from the Hale Senior Activity Center, shared inspiring stories of local seniors who exemplify this theme. He recognized Sue Glorschibe and Matthew Chip Warner, recent inductees into the Senior Hall of Fame, for their dedication to community service and active engagement.

Montenay noted that older adults are not just participants but vital contributors to the community, participating in fitness classes, lifelong learning programs, and volunteering. “Every day at the William E. Veil Senior Activity Center, I witness older adults flipping the script by challenging themselves physically and connecting with others,” he said.

The meeting concluded with a call to action for all residents to celebrate and support their older citizens, reinforcing Dunedin's commitment to being a great place for all generations to live, work, and play. The city looks forward to continuing its collaboration with community organizations to enhance the lives of older adults.