You're Never Too Old, or Too Young, to "Unleash the Power of Age."

May is Older Americans Month, a proud tradition that shows our nation’s commitment to honor the value that elders contribute to our communities. This year’s Older Americans Month theme—“Unleash the Power of Age!”—recognizes that people across our nation are achieving remarkable things in later life. Many older adults are productive, active, and influential members of society, and use their knowledge and experience, to improve the lives of others.

To celebrate the vitality and achievements of older adults our community, Aging Care Connections, a local organization that provides services and programs to enrich the lives of seniors, has designated May 16-22, 2013 as Celebrating Seniors Week. The Brookfield Public Library joins area organizations in offering special programs and services for seniors.  While some programs are targeted specifically to seniors, residents of all ages can be inspired by these programs. Studies show that lifelong participation in social, creative, intellectual, and physical activities have proven benefits to healthy aging and longevity.  Adults who “get active” earlier in life are more likely to “stay active” as they age. You’re never too old, or too young, to unleash the power of age. If you need inspiration to get started, explore the following upcoming programs:

AARP Driver Safety Workshop
Thursday, May 16 & Friday, May 17 from 1—5 p.m.
Brookfield Public Library
The AARP Driver Safety Program meets for two days to teach older adults about safe driving. There is a $14 fee for the program ($12 AARP members). Participants will receive a workbook and a certificate upon completion worth a deduction in auto insurance premiums. Registration required; sign up in person at the Information Desk; by phone at 708-485-6917 x 130, or online at www.brookfieldlibrary.info.

Bicycle Maintenance
Monday, May 20 at 7 p.m.
Broofield Public Library
How do I properly clean and lube my bicycle? How do I change a spare tire? Jim McGuire demonstrates basic do-it-yourself bicycle maintenance and answers questions about the workings of the bicycle.  Register to attend online at www.BrookfieldLibrary.info, by phone at 708-485-6917 x 130, or in person at the Information Desk.

Senior Spelling Bee
Wednesday, May 22 at 1 p.m. 
Brookfield Village Hall
Local seniors are invited to test their spelling know-how at this Spelling Bee for seniors. The winner will go on to represent Brookfield in a regional bee to be held in June/July.  Register to participate online at www.brookfieldlibrary.info, by phone at 708-485-6917 x 130, or in person at the Information Desk. 

Gardening with Native Plants
Wednesday, May 22 at 7 p.m.
Brookfield Public Library
Learn how to incorporate native plants into your landscaping.  Frejya Conrad from DigRightIn discusses which plants attract butterflies, birds, and other beneficial wildlife, and how these choices will actually sustain their existence. Register to attend online at www.BrookfieldLibrary.info, by phone at 708-485-6917 x 130, or in person at the Information Desk.

Movie Matinee: The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel
Saturday, May 25 at 2 p.m.
Brookfield Public Library
In honor of Older Americans Month, join us for The Best Exotic Marigold Hotel. When seven cash-strapped seniors decide to 'outsource' their retirement to a resort in far-off India, friendship and romance blossom in the most unexpected ways.

Email for Seniors
Wednesday, May 29 at 2 p.m.
Brookfield Public Library
Get a free email account and learn the basics. If you already have an email account, bring your login and password.  Registration required; sign up in person at the Information Desk; by phone at 708-485-6917 x 130, or online at www.brookfieldlibrary.info.

Walk with Therese: Preventing Domestic Violence
Thursday, May 30 at 7 p.m.
Brookfield Public Library
The Walk with Therese team presents an overview of domestic violence. Domestic violence is a crime that affects all ages.  Elder abuse, a form of domestic violence, is a growing concern that can have devastating consequences. Help stop domestic violence by learning what to do and how to recognize signs and symptoms. Register to attend online at www.BrookfieldLibrary.info, by phone at 708-485-6917 x 130, or in person at the Information Desk.

To learn more about the Brookfield Public Library’s activities and events planned for Older Americans Month, or to find ideas about what you can do to unleash the power of age, contact the Library at 708-485-6917 or visit www.brookfieldlibrary.info.  For more information on Older Americans Month, explore the resources available at www.olderamericansmonth.acl.gov.