May Is Older Americans Month, Bergen Co. Officials Declare

BERGEN COUNTY, NJ — The Bergen Board of County Commissioners is observing May as Older Americans Month, along with the Division of Senior Services.

“Communities of Strength” is the theme for 2021.

With around 228,000 residents being age 60 and older (or about one-fourth of the population), Bergen has one of the highest expectancies in the nation, according to a statement from county officials said

"That long life means that these older residents need a range of services," the statement said.

Those services should make sure they help elders remain engaged in their community as they age, and help them stretch their budgets, to guarantee they enjoy a better quality of life.

Seniors, disabled adults, their caregivers, and professionals can contact the Division of Senior Services via their helpline (201-336-74000) or email (seniors@co.bergen.nj.us) and inquire about eligibility for a number of benefits and services. They include:

• Nutrition programs such as Meals on Wheels, congregate lunches or food stamps
• Benefits screens to determine eligibility and level of service for Medicare, Medicaid or short and long term care options
• Transportation
• Help in the home, such as repair services and food shopping
• Support for caregivers
• Social and volunteer connections
• Emergency Assistance
• Advocacy and legal rights
• Housing resources