    [United States Statutes at Large, Volume 124, 111th Congress, 2nd Session]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

    PROCLAMATION 8506--APR. 28, 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 Con-

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    stitution 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.
    BARACK OBAMA