Whereas, In 2000 there were an estimated 34.9 million people over the age of 65 years in the United States, comprising 1 in every 8 Americans, and by 2030, there will be about 70 million persons, comprising 1 in every 5 Americans; and,

Whereas, According to the 2000 census, Michigan has nearly 1.6 million people over the age of 60 years, representing 16.1 percent of the total population; and, 

Whereas, The number of older adults age 85+ has grown by 33 percent since 1990 and represents the fastest growing segment of Michigan’s population, estimated to be over 142,000 people; and, 

Whereas, In the year 2000 the total population of Michiganians who were age 100+ was 1,535; and,

Whereas, By the year 2025 Michigan’s population of 65 years and older is projected to grow from 12.3 percent to 18.1 percent; and,

Whereas, Older adults are entitled to live healthier lives through a combination of independence and choice; and,

Whereas, Older citizens need the assistance of their communities to thrive, including the understanding and support from their friends and family; and,

Whereas, Coordinated efforts to provide support on issues as diverse as housing, transportation, and health care can be vital to healthy aging and long-term living; and,

Whereas, The aging population is growing and offering more wisdom to succeeding generations than ever before; and,

Whereas, Older Americans Month is a time to thank older adults and to recognize their valuable contributions to their families and to the State of Michigan; and now therefore be it,

Resolved, That I, Jennifer M. Granholm, Governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 2006, as Older Americans Month in Michigan.