May 1, 2024: Older Michigander Day

HEREAS, Michigan is home to more than 2.4 million adults age 60 years and older who make positive and lasting contributions to our great state every day; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan residents today are living longer, healthier lives; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan has more residents over the age of 60 than under the age of 18; and,

WHEREAS, older Michiganders have spent their lives building this great state — raising families, running businesses, and serving their communities. Many still work in and give back to their communities and are critical to Michigan's economy, workforce, education systems, faith-based institutions, charitable organizations, and institutions of government; and,

WHEREAS, our state is committed to supporting older adults by ensuring there are opportunities available in local communities to help them stay engaged, maintain their health and independence, and live where they want to live and thrive as they age; and,

WHEREAS, older adults are stronger socially and economically because of community support and recognition to provide them with resources for a fulfilling life; and,

WHEREAS, Michigan was the first state in the Midwest and fifth in the nation to join the AARP/World Health Organization Age-Friendly Movement; and, 

WHEREAS, we join with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Aging and Adult Services Agency to encourage Michigan residents to take time this month to acknowledge the older adults in their lives and thank them for what they have done for individuals and our communities; 

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim May 1, 2024 as Older Michigander Day.