[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 38, Number 18 (Monday, May 6, 2002)]
[Pages 729-730]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7551--Older Americans Month, 2002

 May 1, 2002

 By the President of the United States

 of America

 A Proclamation

    Our Nation's strength and vitality reside in our citizens. Each year 
in May, we honor and recognize older Americans for their important 
sacrifices and contributions to our society. Our seniors have cared for 
their families and communities, enhanced our economic prosperity, 
defended our Nation, and preserved and protected the Founders' vision. 
Their commitment to our future sets an inspiring example for all. And 
their resilience, fortitude, and experience provide us with important 
perspectives and insights as we face the challenges of a new era.
    The theme of this year's observance, ``America: A Community for All 
Ages,'' reminds us that all citizens, regardless of age, are essential 
to successful and safe communities. The celebration also recognizes the 
extended role seniors play in our families, communities, and workplaces, 
as they live longer, healthier, and more productive lives. Drawing on 
their considerable knowledge and experience, older Americans mentor at-
risk children, deliver meals to homebound seniors, and care for frail or 
chronically ill family members. Others embark on exciting new careers or 
engage in challenging themselves in athletic competitions. In addition, 
many seniors have answered my call to service by becoming involved in 
the Senior Corps domestic service program, which is administered by the 
Corporation for National and Community Service.
    As we celebrate the lives of older Americans, we also renew our 
dedication to their well-being. My Administration strongly supports 
measures that protect the promise of retirement and healthcare security 
for seniors. We must modernize our Medicare and Medicaid programs so 
that seniors can access the best medicines and treatments. We must 
secure a good prescription drug benefit program for all our seniors. We 
must also continue to support medical research that is specifically 
targeted to the health problems of older Americans. By supporting 
flexible and innovative forms of long-term care, we can reduce the 
demands of caring for an elderly or disabled loved one. And we must 
strengthen financial security by protecting Social Security for today's 
retirees by encouraging private saving among all Americans, giving 
individuals more control over their investments.
    This year's observance of Older Americans Month also marks the 30th 
anniversary of the Older Americans Act Nutrition Program, one of our 
most vital, community-based programs for seniors. Managed by the 
Administration on Aging and supported by the private sector and 
countless nonprofit organizations, the program has provided nearly 6 
billion meals to senior centers and other group settings and to those 
who are homebound. It has also provided nutrition counseling and 
opportunities for health screening. For many elderly, this program has 
made a tremendous impact on their quality of life.
    By maintaining and improving programs that assist older Americans, 
we help these important citizens enjoy longer, healthier, and more 
productive lives. During this month, I join all Americans in paying 
tribute to the achievements and contributions of our greatest generation 
and reaffirming our commitment to their well-being.

[[Page 730]]

     Now, Therefore, I, George W. Bush, President of the United States 
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution 
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim May 2002 as Older 
Americans Month. I commend the national aging network of State, local, 
and tribal organizations, service and healthcare providers, caregivers, 
and millions of dedicated volunteers for your daily efforts on behalf of 
our senior citizens. I encourage all Americans to honor their elders, to 
seek opportunities to address their needs, and to work together to 
reinforce the bonds that unite families and communities. I also call 
upon all our citizens to publicly reaffirm our Nation's commitment to 
older Americans this month and throughout the year.
     In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand this first day of 
May, in the year of our Lord two thousand two, and of the Independence 
of the United States of America the two hundred and twenty-sixth.
                                                George W. Bush

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 3, 2002]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on May 2, and it was published in the Federal Register on May 
6.