Older Americans Month, 2002

Proclamation 7551 of May 1, 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.

(Presidential Sig.)B