May is Older Americans Month

Continuing a tradition set in motion by President John F. Kennedy in 1963, President Obama proclaimed that May 2010 is Older Americans month. The proclamation was made to to honor the ongoing contributions of older Americans and pledge our support as a nation to the "wisest among us."

This year's Older Americans Month theme is Age Strong! Live Long! and aims to recognize the diversity and vitality of today's older Americans who span three generations. They have lived through wars and hard times, as well as periods of unprecedented prosperity. They pioneered new technologies in medicine, communications, and industry while spearheading a cultural revolution that won equal rights for minorities, women, and disabled Americans. These remarkable achievements demonstrate the strength and character of older Americans, and underscore the debt of gratitude we owe to the generations that have given our society so much. However, the contributions of older Americans are not only in the past.

Click here to read the Presidential Proclamation.