As we celebrate Older Americans Month and the theme "Champion Your Health", we sat down with psychiatric nurse Dan Nodalo, who generously provides mental health support to the seniors we serve.
To Dan, “Champion Your Health” means taking an active, daily role in caring for your physical, mental, and emotional well-being, no matter your age.
Loneliness and isolation are common for everyone, especially for older adults. Dan suggests starting small and staying consistent by attending group activities like bingo, exercise classes, gardening, karaoke, or a walking group. Even reaching out to a friend with a simple “I thought about you” can go along way.
Staying connected, maintaining routines, and asking for support early can make a big difference.
For the past five years, Dan has been hosting a weekly gathering called “Over a Cup of Coffee” at Serving Seniors. This is an opportunity for seniors to come together to connect, reflect and discuss meaningful topics in a relaxed and safe space.
Barbara, a participant, calls it her "Happiness Class."
Dan and Barbara after “Over a Cup of Coffee”
Topics include anything from resilience and gratitude, to dealing with change, or letting go. It was inspired by the simple idea that healing and growth often happen through simple conversation - just sitting together, sharing stories and feeling heard.
Participants often share that they feel less alone, more connected and that they look forward to the sessions each week. Many appreciate having a space where they can speak openly and be listened to without judgment.
Dan describes connecting with seniors as incredibly rewarding, "There is a richness in their life experiences, and the conversations are thoughtful, honest, and often inspiring. It's a space where seniors feel safe to share and support one another."
Sylvia, who has been coming to “Over a Cup of Coffee” for at least two years, says that it gives her the tools to manage her daily life in a positive way.
Dan summed up the spirit of Older American's Month perfectly:
Champion Your Health is about small, consistent choices that support a meaningful and independent life. Serving Seniors encourages this beautifully by creating accessible programs that promote connection, nutrition, physical activity, and mental health support, all in a welcoming community.
To see our calendar of activities include Over a Cup of coffee click here.
You can champion the health of seniors this Older American's Month by supporting the programs that keep our physical and mental health services FREE and accessible. Give today to make healthy aging possible.
