[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 125, 112th Congress, 1st Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

 
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 Ameri

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cans, 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.
BARACK OBAMA