[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 39, Number 18 (Monday, May 5, 2003)]
[Pages 511-512]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 7669--Older Americans Month, 2003

April 30, 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.

[[Page 512]]

    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

[Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., May 2, 2003]

Note: This proclamation was released by the Office of the Press 
Secretary on May 1, and it was published in the Federal Register on May 
5.