Older Americans Month, 2003

Proclamation 7669 of April 30, 2003

Older Americans Month, 2003

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Advances in medicine, public health, science, and
technology are keeping Americans healthier and adding
years to our lives. As our population of senior
citizens continues to grow, our Nation remains
dedicated to fulfilling our promises to these valuable
members of our society. This year's observance of Older
Americans Month, ``What We Do Makes A Difference,''
recognizes the important contributions of older
Americans and the network of services that support
them. Older Americans continue to work in a variety of
jobs, from teachers, to engineers, to business owners
and entrepreneurs, and in so doing bring invaluable
experience and leadership skills. Additionally, their
wisdom, strength, and compassion reflect the character
of our great Nation. During this month, we honor our
seniors and thank them for the lessons they teach us
and the strong values they instill in families and
communities throughout our country.

Serving as examples to others, throughout our Nation
every day, older Americans are engaging in acts of
compassion. Over a half million members of the Senior
Corps are volunteering their time and talents to help
those in need. Retired doctors, nurses, police, and
firefighters are helping communities prepare for
emergencies, and countless other older Americans are
bringing comfort and care to their families and
neighbors. These individuals understand the importance
of service, and their efforts are helping to build a
more welcoming society. Many food banks, clothing
distribution programs, and other social service
activities of faith-based and community organizations
could not operate without the senior Americans who
volunteer in these efforts.

As these individuals continue to work on our behalf,
our Nation is working to fulfill our obligations to
older Americans by providing them with good health care
and other services to enhance their lives. My
Administration is coordinating with State and Area
Agencies on Aging, and faith-based and community
organizations to better provide essential services,
such as meals, nutrition, counseling, and health
screening, to our seniors. Seven million older
Americans and their families are currently being served
by a large network of Federal, State, tribal, local
partnerships, and thousands of volunteers. The services
provided by these groups make it easier for older
Americans to remain in their homes, communities, and
the workplace, which helps preserve their dignity and
independence.

In addition, our Medicare system is our binding
commitment as a caring society. When Medicare was
signed into law 38 years ago, it was designed to bring
the healing miracle of modern medicine to our senior
citizens. We must renew our commitment to giving
seniors access to the preventative medicines and new
drugs that are transforming health care in America.
Medicare must be available in a variety of forms, and
older Americans must have the opportunity to choose the
healthcare plan that best fits their needs. My
Administration will continue its efforts to improve
programs that support older Americans and to offer
innovative options for long-term care.

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 2003 as Older Americans
Month. I commend our senior citizens for their many
contributions to our society. I further commend the
network of Federal, State, local, and tribal
organizations, service and healthcare providers,
caregivers, and millions of dedicated volunteers for
their daily efforts on behalf of our senior citizens. I
encourage all Americans to honor their elders, to find
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
thirtieth day of April, in the year of our Lord two
thousand three, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and twenty-seventh.

(Presidential Sig.)B