Older Americans Month, 2011

Proclamation 8663 of April 29, 2011

Older Americans Month, 2011

By the President of the United States of America

A Proclamation

Older Americans are now living longer, healthier, and
richer lives than ever before. As the eldest of the
baby boomers turn 65, our Nation can look forward to
the contributions of a new generation of American
seniors. Each year, we set aside the month of May to
honor older Americans, celebrate their role in steering
the course of our history, and recognize their valuable
insights and wisdom.

The theme for this year's Older Americans Month,
``Older Americans: Connecting the Community,'' reminds
us that seniors are continually enriching lives and
contributing to our country. This theme also highlights
how technology, including social media and assistive
devices, can help adults remain engaged in their
communities and connected to friends and family who may
live far away.

My Administration is committed to meeting the needs and
aspirations of American seniors, both now and in the
future. We are working to improve the health and well-
being of older men and women with a focus on preventive
care and community living. The historic Affordable Care
Act gives America's seniors greater freedom and control
over their health care. In addition to benefitting from
more comprehensive prescription drug coverage, most
people with Medicare will now be able to receive an
annual wellness visit and many critical preventive
services for free, including certain cancer screenings
such as mammograms and colonoscopies.

Today, millions of our Nation's seniors are making a
significant difference in society, strengthening our
communities through their service. Older Americans
support the arts and serve meals at soup kitchens. They
mentor our children and stock the shelves at food
pantries and libraries. Programs supported by the
Corporation for National and Community Service and the
Administration on Aging are working to connect men and
women to community service, benefiting Americans of all
ages. Interested individuals can visit
www.SeniorCorps.gov for more information and local
volunteer opportunities.

Having lived through many of our Nation's most
challenging times, older Americans have shaped the
story of America and secured the promise of our future.
We are privileged to recognize these treasured citizens
during Older Americans Month, and honor both the impact
they have made and their accomplishments yet to come.

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 2011 as Older
Americans Month. I invite Americans of all ages to
acknowledge the contributions of older Americans during
this month and throughout the year.

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