Bill > H6302

This resolution honors Older Americans Month in Rhode Island for May 2025, providing historical context and recognition of the contributions of older Americans. The resolution traces the origins of Older Americans Month to 1963, when it was first established by President Kennedy, and highlights significant demographic changes, noting that the population of Americans 65 and older has grown from 17 million to 62 million, now representing 18 percent of the population with a projected increase to 23 percent by 2054. The resolution emphasizes the critical roles older Americans play in society, including supporting young families, contributing to civic organizations, and being key economic participants, while also acknowledging the increasing poverty rate among seniors, which has risen from 9 percent in 2020 to 10.9 percent in 2022. By officially proclaiming May as Older Americans Month, the Rhode Island House of Representatives aims to celebrate the wisdom, experience, and ongoing contributions of older adults, and to underscore the importance of providing services, resources, and support that enable seniors to live independently and make choices that best suit their needs. The resolution also directs the Secretary of State to send a certified copy of the resolution to Maria Cimini, Director of the Rhode Island Office of Healthy Aging.

https://status.rilegislature.gov/