Senate News Update
From Senator Jane Earll
April 7, 2010

Celebrate Older Americans Month!

Erie County is home to nearly 40,000 residents age 65 and older, and our communities are so much stronger because of their presence.

The historical experiences of senior citizens, who are able to interpret events through seasoned perspectives, provide valued wisdom and insight.

Each year, states (and the nation as a whole) designate May as "Older Americans Month." This year's theme is "Age Strong! Live Long!" recognizing the vitality of today's older Americans who span three generations.

This in an appropriate theme, with increasing numbers of adults reaching retirement age and remaining strong and active for longer than ever before.

Senior citizens are the pillars upon which American families have been built, and they represent a dramatic trend in our nation's demographic makeup.

The opportunities and challenges that lie ahead require all of us to think differently about health care and long-term care and to work together to reexamine our current systems so that we may adequately plan for and address the needs of current and future generations.

At 14.4 percent, Erie County has a higher percentage of older residents than the national average of 12.6 percent. That means our communities stand to benefit from experience and perspective, but it also means we must ensure that area seniors receive the assistance necessary to live fulfilling, active lives.

Communities are striving to help senior citizens live with dignity and independence. Positive developments include streamlined access to information and community services, information about cost-effective prevention practices and activities that will improve health and quality of life and innovative, affordable options of care and support that will provide an array of choices about how and where to live.