Colonial Courtyard at Bedford LifeStages Director Tyler Mizak (center) holds a proclamation made by the Bedford County Commissioners, declaring Sept. 10, 2025, as “Older People Are Cool Day.” Mizak is joined by commissioners, from left, Mike Stiles, Deb Baughman and JR Winck.
Colonial Courtyard at Bedford LifeStages Director Tyler Mizak leads effort to honor aging with positivity, pride, and community support
BEDFORD, Pa. — Colonial Courtyard at Bedford LifeStages Director Tyler Mizak had a vision: a community-wide celebration that shines a positive light on aging.
That vision became reality when the Bedford County Board of Commissioners officially proclaimed September 10, 2025, as “Older People Are Cool Day.”
Mizak presented the idea at a county meeting earlier this month, urging leaders to recognize and honor the wisdom, humor and resilience of older adults. The commissioners agreed, making Bedford County one of the first to formally celebrate the contributions of its senior residents.
Bedford County Commissioners Mike Stiles, chairman; JR Winck, vice-chairman; and Deb Baughman, secretary each signed the proclamation, which noted “Older People Are Cool Day” fell within National Assisted Living Week (Sept. 7-13, 2025) — “a time dedicated to celebrating the individuals who live and work in assisted living communities, and to raising awareness of the importance of quality care, dignity and meaningful engagement.”
Mizak is known for creating positive and fun engagement and activities among the seniors at Colonial Courtyard at Bedford. His “Ageless Adventures” podcast featuring senior residents went viral this year, and Mizak has a knack for creating fun and often insightful activities or outings.
“Since I started working with seniors six years ago, I believed older people deserve to be celebrated, not just cared for,” Mizak said. “Working in senior living, I see every day how much wisdom, humor and resilience they bring to the table. Too often, aging is looked at through a negative lens, but I wanted to flip that script.”
The proclamation drew inspiration from the belief that aging is not something to hide, but to celebrate. “It’s something to be proud of, and it should be welcomed by the entire community,” Mizak explained.
Bringing the idea to life took more than just a presentation. Mizak credited teamwork, persistence and widespread community support.
“Our residents, staff and community partners rallied behind the cause, and that support is what made it possible,” he said. “It wasn’t just a one-person effort. It was a true community project that included writing the proclamation, gathering support, and getting people excited to participate.”
The response from Colonial Courtyard seniors was heartfelt. “The residents were overjoyed,” Mizak said. “Many of them said they felt truly seen and valued in a way they hadn’t experienced before. Some teared up during the courthouse presentation, while others were just proud to be part of history.
“They loved knowing this wasn’t just a celebration for them, but for every older person and those connected to them,” he said.
Two residents who attended the proclamation shared their gratitude. Jerry Stewart, 98, said, “I never thought something like this would be possible. People look at older folks and think we’re annoying or a hassle, but having a day that proves older people are cool will really help with that.”
Verna Turner, 91, added through tears, “I’m so happy and never thought I would see a day like this in my lifetime. I’m very thankful to all who made it happen.”
Mizak hopes the tradition will continue well beyond 2025.
“If not, I will be back at the commissioners’ meeting next year and every year after that,” he said with a smile. “Our hope is that it grows bigger each year with more celebrations, more businesses and individuals joining in, and eventually spreading beyond just our county. This was only the beginning.”
For more information, contact Tyler Mizak, LifeStages Director, Colonial Courtyard at Bedford, at tmizak@integracare.com or call 814.624.0100.