[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