For Release: IMMEDIATE
Date: May 15, 2006

Choices for Independence: May is Older Americans Month

RALEIGH – May has been designated by Gov. Mike Easley as Older Americans Month in North Carolina. This year’s theme, “Choices for Independence,” was chosen by the U.S. Administration on Aging to reflect continued commitment to help our nation prepare for a larger aging population, and to bolster the efforts of baby boomers and older adults to achieve healthy aging, maintaining the dignity they deserve and providing them with more opportunities to live longer independently while contributing to communities they cherish.

Gov. Easley, in his 2006 Older Americans Act proclamation, said that, “North Carolina is pleased to join other states in this tradition of honoring older Americans, celebrating the over 1.5 million older adults in our state, and marking the 41th anniversary of the federal Older Americans Act.” He also spoke of the imminent aging of the Baby Boomer cohort, those born between 1946 and 1964. This year’s Older Americans Month theme calls upon Baby Boomers to continue preparing for successful long-term living as well. Easley also noted that North Carolina supports the creation of Livable and Senior-Friendly Communities across the state to enhance and encourage healthy aging of its citizens.

The chance of living longer and healthier is increased with personal planning and action. For example, while Medicare pays for an annual mammography for all women over the age of 60, only 80% take advantage of the service. In 2000, less than half of Medicare beneficiaries received a flu shot, and only 50% of eligible Medicare beneficiaries received colon cancer tests at appropriate intervals. Older Americans Month gives all persons the opportunity to help older adults, their family and caregivers, and baby boomers understand the importance of prevention and early detection.

“Americans are not only living longer, they are also living healthier and more independently with greater choices regarding their care,” said Dennis Streets, Division of Aging and Adult Services Director. Streets also mentioned that it is important to expand opportunities for older adults that allow them to “remain healthy, productive, and financially secure in their later years.”

In acknowledging that older adults are living longer but also better, Gov. Easley identified some steps necessary to help people prepare for later life. These steps include understanding housing and long-term care options; gaining financial literacy and knowledge of retirement benefits; and seeking opportunities for community participation and social engagement, including access to employment, volunteer, educational, and leisure activities. He cited Senior Centers as important community focal points for accessing information and encouraged communities to take steps to become more senior friendly.

For further information and/or assistance regarding preparing for long-term living for yourself or a loved one, contact your local aging organization(s) or Area Agency on Aging, or visit the website of the Division of Aging and Adult Services at www.dhhs.state.nc.us/aging.

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