Dozens of older adults were celebrated Friday at the Wilson County Senior Activity Center. The “Age My Way” event was held in recognition of Older Americans Month. 

Several vendors passed out information and goody bags. Officials served lunch and held activities for seniors as well. 

“I love it,” Margaret Coleman said.

Coleman and Christine Bolden joined the celebration after their morning walk at the Wilson Medical Center track. 

“It’s a good thing because a lot of seniors don’t know what’s out there for them,” Coleman said. “A lot are stuck in the house and can’t get out.” 

Coleman said older adults are often by themselves because their children are far away, and they need someone to talk to. She said that’s why the Wilson County Senior Activity Center is a good place for older adults to interact. 

Kesha Atkinson-Howell, aging services specialist for the senior center, said that’s what the center is all about. She said this is the first year the facility has held the celebration. 

“This year, we wanted to take the time to highlight some of our senior participants at the center as well as recognize and honor our seniors here in Wilson County and show the tremendous impact that they have made and continue to make to this community,” Atkinson-Howell said. “They are such a big part of why we do what we do every day here. We wanted to highlight that seniors are still active. They’re doing fun things, and they have a good time doing it out here at the center.” 

Wilson County commissioners proclaimed May as Older Americans Month for Wilson County. 

Atkinson-Howell said she is constantly seeking to implement innovative ideas to help older adults socialize so they can stay involved and increase their physical and mental well-being as they age through activities and educational programs at the center. 

 “We are committed to continuously providing support and services, which will assist them in remaining connected and thriving as they age," she said.