WHEREAS, Idaho is home to more than 234,500 citizens age 60 or older; and

        WHEREAS, older adults in Idaho and throughout the United States are a growing population with evolving needs; and

        WHEREAS, older Americans are valuable members of our society who are rich with experience and deserving of our respect; and

        WHEREAS, the number of Baby Boomers reaching traditional retirement age continues to increase, a fact that highlights the need for increased attention to the needs of older adults; and

        WHEREAS, our older citizens are the most active and engaged older adult populations in our nation’s history;

        WHEREAS, it is the responsibility of this state and all U.S. communities to work together and prepare for changing older adult populations by modernizing systems of care and providing consumers with more control over their lives; and

        WHEREAS, overall quality of life can be greatly enhanced when supportive communities help their older citizens obtain:

Evidence-based approaches to making behavioral changes that can reduce risk of disease, disability and injury.

The tools to make informed decisions about, and gain better access to, existing health and long-term care options.

More options to avoid placement in nursing homes and remain at home as long as possible

        NOW THEREFORE, I C. L., “Butch” Otter, Governor of the State of Idaho do hereby proclaim May 2008 to be

Older Americans Month

in Idaho, and I urge everyone to take time to honor our older adults and the professionals, family members and citizens who care for older adults. I urge all citizens/communities to work collaboratively to strengthen the services Idaho provides to its older adults in ways that recognize the changing nature of their needs, and that provide older adults with more opportunities to make informed choices about their lives. Our efforts can improve the lives of our older citizens and help pave the way for future generations.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused to be affixed the Great Seal of the State of Idaho at Boise, Idaho, on this 1st day of May in the year of our Lord two-thousand and eight and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred thirty-second and of the Statehood of Idaho the one hundred eighteenth.

BEN YSURSA
SECRETARY OF STATE