For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
May 1, 2003
Older Americans Month, 2003
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Advances in medicine, public health, science, and technology are
keeping Americans healthier and adding years to our lives. As our
population of senior citizens continues to grow, our Nation remains
dedicated to fulfilling our promises to these valuable members of our
society. This year's observance of Older Americans Month, "What We Do
Makes A Difference," recognizes the important contributions of older
Americans and the network of services that support them. Older
Americans continue to work in a variety of jobs, from teachers, to
engineers, to business owners and entrepreneurs, and in so doing bring
invaluable experience and leadership skills. Additionally, their
wisdom, strength, and compassion reflect the character of our great
Nation. During this month, we honor our seniors and thank them for the
lessons they teach us and the strong values they instill in families
and communities throughout our country.
Serving as examples to others, throughout our Nation every day,
older Americans are engaging in acts of compassion. Over a half
million members of the Senior Corps are volunteering their time and
talents to help those in need. Retired doctors, nurses, police, and
firefighters are helping communities prepare for emergencies, and
countless other older Americans are bringing comfort and care to their
families and neighbors. These individuals understand the importance of
service, and their efforts are helping to build a more welcoming
society. Many food banks, clothing distribution programs, and other
social service activities of faith-based and community organizations
could not operate without the senior Americans who volunteer in these
efforts.
As these individuals continue to work on our behalf, our Nation is
working to fulfill our obligations to older Americans by providing them
with good health care and other services to enhance their lives. My
Administration is coordinating with State and Area Agencies on Aging,
and faith-based and community organizations to better provide essential
services, such as meals, nutrition, counseling, and health screening,
to our seniors. Seven million older Americans and their families are
currently being served by a large network of Federal, State, tribal,
local partnerships, and thousands of volunteers. The services provided
by these groups make it easier for older Americans to remain in their
homes, communities, and the workplace, which helps preserve their
dignity and independence.
In addition, our Medicare system is our binding commitment as a
caring society. When Medicare was signed into law 38 years ago, it was
designed to bring the healing miracle of modern medicine to our senior
citizens. We must renew our commitment to giving seniors access to the preventative medicines and new
drugs that are transforming health care in America. Medicare must be
available in a variety of forms, and older Americans must have the
opportunity to choose the healthcare plan that best fits their needs.
My Administration will continue its efforts to improve programs that
support older Americans and to offer innovative options for long-term
care.
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 2003 as Older
Americans Month. I commend our senior citizens for their many
contributions to our society. I further commend the network of Federal,
State, local, and tribal organizations, service and healthcare
providers, caregivers, and millions of dedicated volunteers for their
daily efforts on behalf of our senior citizens. I encourage all
Americans to honor their elders, to find 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 thirtieth
day of April, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-seventh.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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