City of Davis

May is Older Americans Month

Historically, Older Americans Month has been a time to acknowledge the contributions of past and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our country. Every President since JFK has issued a formal proclamation during or before the month of May asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way to older persons in their communities. Older Americans Month is celebrated across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs, and other such activities.

Never has it been more evident, that one of the biggest challenges facing the United States is how we will care for our grandparents, parents, and loved ones as they age. Views may vary on how to prepare for what will be a diverse wave of seniors, whose ranks are growing due to the aging of 78 million baby boomers who will begin to turn 65 in 2011. But all agree that this shift in our nation’s demographics will have profound implications for our economic and social landscapes at the national, state and local level.

Older adults living in Davis are among the millions helping to redefine aging in America, and this year’s theme, “Making Choices for a Healthier Future” encourages us to think differently about health and long term care, and to work together to modernize our current systems so that we may adequately plan for the needs of current and future generations through:

• Streamlined access to information as well as to home or community based services, including information that will enable people to plan ahead for long term care.
• Information about cost-effective prevention practices and activities that will improve health and quality of life and reduce risk of disease, disability and injury.
• Innovative, affordable and flexible options for care and support that will provide an array of choices about how and where to live.

The City of Davis would like to join in this special designation by reaffirming its commitment to improving the lives of older adults and for those who care for them, by continuing to provide quality recreational, social and supportive services that give choices for a healthier and more rewarding future. On Tuesday, May 15, 2007, the Davis City Council will be honoring the many contributions that older adults provide to this community in celebration of Older Americans Month with a recognition ceremony including a Proclamation of Appreciation on behalf of the City of Davis and presented to community volunteers.

For more information about Older Americans Month or other related activities, please contact the Davis Senior Center, 646 A Street, (530) 757-5696, or email seniorservices@cityofdavis.org