For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
May 2, 2002
Older Americans Month, 2002
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Our Nation's strength and vitality reside in our citizens. Each
year in May, we honor and recognize older Americans for their important
sacrifices and contributions to our society. Our seniors have cared
for their families and communities, enhanced our economic prosperity,
defended our Nation, and preserved and protected the Founders' vision.
Their commitment to our future sets an inspiring example for all. And
their resilience, fortitude, and experience provide us with important
perspectives and insights as we face the challenges of a new era.
The theme of this year's observance, "America: A Community for All
Ages," reminds us that all citizens, regardless of age, are essential
to successful and safe communities. The celebration also recognizes
the extended role seniors play in our families, communities, and
workplaces, as they live longer, healthier, and more productive lives.
Drawing on their considerable knowledge and experience, older Americans
mentor at-risk children, deliver meals to homebound seniors, and care
for frail or chronically ill family members. Others embark on exciting
new careers or engage in challenging themselves in athletic
competitions. In addition, many seniors have answered my call to
service by becoming involved in the Senior Corps domestic service
program, which is administered by the Corporation for National and
Community Service.
As we celebrate the lives of older Americans, we also renew our
dedication to their well-being. My Administration strongly supports
measures that protect the promise of retirement and healthcare
security for seniors. We must modernize our Medicare and Medicaid
programs so that seniors can access the best medicines and treatments.
We must secure a good prescription drug benefit program for all our
seniors. We must also continue to support medical research that is
specifically targeted to the health problems of older Americans. By
supporting flexible and innovative forms of long-term care, we can
reduce the demands of caring for an elderly or disabled loved one. And
we must strengthen financial security by protecting Social Security for
today's retirees by encouraging private saving among all Americans,
giving individuals more control over their investments.
This year's observance of Older Americans Month also marks the 30th
anniversary of the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program, one of our
most vital, community-based programs for seniors. Managed by the
Administration on Aging and supported by the private sector and
countless nonprofit organizations, the program has provided nearly 6
billion meals to senior centers and other group settings and to those
who are homebound. It has also provided nutrition counseling and
opportunities for health screening. For many elderly, this program has
made a tremendous impact on their quality of life.
By maintaining and improving programs that assist older Americans,
we help these important citizens enjoy longer, healthier, and more
productive lives. During this month, I join all Americans in paying
tribute to the achievements and contributions of our greatest
generation and reaffirming our commitment to their well-being.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2002 as Older
Americans Month. I commend the national aging network of State, local,
and tribal organizations, service and healthcare providers,
caregivers, and millions of dedicated volunteers for your daily efforts
on behalf of our senior citizens. I encourage all Americans to honor
their elders, to seek opportunities to address their needs, and to work
together to reinforce the bonds that unite families and communities. I
also call upon all our citizens to publicly reaffirm our Nation's
commitment to older Americans this month and throughout the year.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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