More than 47 million Americans are 60 years old or older. During Older
Americans Month, we honor our senior citizens for enriching and strengthening
our Nation, and we pledge to continue working to enhance their quality of life.
This year's theme, "Aging Well, Living Well," reflects the many ways that
older Americans contribute to our national character. Many are working beyond
traditional retirement age, while others volunteer their time serving worthy
causes. Through the Senior Corps program of the USA Freedom Corps, more than
half a million older Americans donated time to their communities last year, and
many others are volunteering through the Peace Corps and other programs.
My Administration is committed to helping our senior citizens lead better,
healthier, and longer lives. Late last year, I was proud to sign into law the
Medicare Prescription Drug, Improvement, and Modernization Act of 2003. This
historic legislation represents the greatest improvement in senior health care
since President Lyndon Johnson signed the Social Security Act Amendments that
created Medicare in 1965. It gives seniors access to affordable prescription
drug coverage, provides for preventive screenings to diagnose and treat health
conditions early, and updates the Medicare system to let seniors choose coverage
that best meets their needs. These changes are vital to ensuring that seniors
can obtain the health care and prescription drugs they deserve.
Older Americans help others to understand the past, and they teach timeless
lessons of courage, endurance, and love. Through their legacy of patriotism,
service, and responsibility, America's seniors also unite families and
communities and serve as role models for younger generations.
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 2004 as Older Americans Month. I commend
older Americans for the contributions they make to our communities. I further
commend Federal officials, State, and local governments, tribal organizations,
service and health care providers, caregivers, volunteers, and all those who
work on behalf of our senior citizens. I encourage all Americans to honor their
elders and publicly reaffirm our Nation's commitment to older Americans during
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 four, and of the Independence of the United
States of America the two hundred and twenty-eighth.
GEORGE W. BUSH
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