DENVER (May 7, 2025) — The Colorado Department of Human Services (CDHS) is celebrating Older Americans Month this May, honoring the contributions, resilience and vitality of older adults across the state. This year’s theme, “Flip the Script on Aging” reflects a growing awareness that older adulthood is not a winding down, but a stepping up. CDHS is proud to celebrate the ways older adults contribute to Colorado and the nation as we support them thriving in their communities.
“As we celebrate Older Americans Month, we recognize the strength, wisdom and invaluable contributions of Colorado’s older adults,” said Minna Castillo, deputy executive director of Community Partnerships. “We remain committed to programs and partnerships that uplift, empower and connect older Coloradans to the care and community they deserve.”
For the first time in our state’s history, more Coloradans are older than 60 years than are younger than 18 years. CDHS recently released the State’s first-ever Multisector Plan on Aging to improve and develop resources to support all Coloradans as we age. An initial draft of the plan, which lays the groundwork for the future, is now available for review. Coloradans statewide can give CDHS feedback (Google Form). The form will close May 30 and the plan will officially launch in July.
Additionally, CDHS is committed to supporting older adults in living with dignity, independence and purpose though a variety of services and partnerships:
- CDHS’s five Veterans Community Living Centers are resident-centered short and long-term care supportive living environments. They serve honorably discharged veterans, their spouses/widows, and Gold Star parents.
- CDHS runs the Everyday Eats food support program for qualifying Coloradans age 60+ to help keep healthy food in their kitchens. Participants can pick up a monthly package of cereal, canned goods and dairy with plenty of low-sodium, diabetic-friendly options to make nutritious, complete meals.
- CDHS is also celebrating the older adults who serve their communities by opening up their hearts and homes as foster parents. One such couple, Cora and Stan, became foster parents with Pueblo County in 1989 and have cared for children and youth in foster care for more than 30 years. They have made lasting connections with the young people who have lived in their home, as well as their biological families. They have hosted young people and their families for holidays and even held a wedding in their backyard. A few years ago, their adult daughter and granddaughter began providing foster care in Pueblo County as well, creating a generational impact.
As CDHS celebrates Older Americans Month, we invite all Coloradans to honor the older adults in their lives and communities. CDHS is working to create a Colorado for All — where every Coloradan has the opportunity to age with dignity, safety and purpose.
CDHS supports people and families by connecting them with assistance, resources and support at every stage of their lives. We serve Coloradans through bold and innovative health and human services. Together, we empower Coloradans to thrive.
Media contact:
AnneMarie Harper, Director of Communications
601-566-9271
annemarie.harper@state.co.us