Older Americans Month, 2010

Proclamation 8506 of April 28, 2010

Older Americans Month, 2010

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Older Americans have lived through momentous and trying
times in our history, and they have strengthened our
national character. Their experience and wisdom connect
us to the past and help us meet the challenges of the
present. During Older Americans Month, we show our
support and appreciation for these treasured
individuals who have contributed so much to our Nation.

This year's theme for Older Americans Month, ``Age
Strong, Live Long,'' recognizes the efforts of people
of all ages to promote the well-being, community
involvement, and independence of senior citizens. As
Americans live longer, healthier, and more productive
lives, many are starting second careers and continuing
to be involved in their communities. Dedicated older
Americans are also answering the call to serve through
the Corporation for National and Community Service's
Senior Corps.

My Administration is committed to ensuring older
Americans can age strong and live long. By
strengthening Medicare and Medicaid, while protecting
Social Security, we help ensure all Americans can age
with dignity. The recently enacted Affordable Care Act
strengthens Medicare by providing free preventive care
starting next year, enhancing care coordination, and
gradually closing the ``donut hole'' gap in
prescription drug coverage. In addition, this law
includes provisions to help prevent and eliminate elder
abuse, neglect, and exploitation. Along with the Middle
Class Task Force's Caregiver Initiative, we are
investing in wellness and prevention programs to help
seniors remain healthy and close to their loved ones.
The Administration on Aging's network of State and
local organizations provides services to older
Americans that help prevent unnecessary hospitalization
or institutionalization. We must also protect seniors
by expanding efforts to fight fraud, waste, and abuse
in Medicare and Medicaid through national and State
efforts, as well as community-based programs that
empower retirees to detect and defend against health
care fraud.

Many of our Nation's older men and women have worked
tirelessly and sacrificed so their children could
achieve something greater. Their passion and experience
inspire us all and we are privileged to honor and care
for the generations whose legacy continues to enrich
our Nation and shape our future.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the
United States of America, by virtue of the authority
vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the
United States, do hereby proclaim May 2010 as Older
Americans Month. I call upon citizens of all ages to
honor older Americans this month with appropriate
ceremonies and activities.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this
twenty-eighth day of April, in the year of our Lord two
thousand ten, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and thirty-fourth.