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WHEREAS, older adults, considered to be of the age of 65 and older, have always been a vital source of strength and resilience in Dutchess County and especially in the Town of Wappinger, and

WHEREAS, older Americans contribute their time and wisdom to make our community stronger, more informed, and better connected. They are our loved ones, friends, mentors, essential workers, volunteers, and neighbors.

WHEREAS, our older persons are diverse, respected residents who continue to contribute to our Town’s social and economic well-being as they live longer, healthier, and more productive lives, many even starting second careers, and

WHEREAS, the older residents of the Town of Wappinger are representative of an unprecedented trend in the nation’s demographic makeup, and

 WHEREAS, our community is stronger when people of all ages, abilities, identities, and background are included and encouraged to make their mark, and

WHEREAS, our older adults may need additional or adapted recreation, transportation, housing, healthcare, civic, and communication services in order to maintain their physical, mental and emotional health and live fully and joyfully, and

WHEREAS, our community can support older adults by promoting inclusion, independence, and innovation through ongoing awareness and education efforts, and

WHEREAS, moving forward, we must ensure that our older Americans have the appropriate resources to maintain their independence and stay connected to our community, and

WHEREAS, as America grows older, our community must strive to understand and address the evolving challenges and needs of our older citizens and the people who care for them. We celebrate their achievements and recommit to providing our elders with the support and services they need to thrive and age with dignity, and

WHEREAS, the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead require us to “think differently’ about health and long term care, and work together to ensure that older Americans can age strong, long and with dignity, and.

WHEREAS , during Older Americans Month, May 2023, and every month of every year, let us pay tribute to the seniors who raised and guided us throughout our lives, and let us renew our commitment to honoring their contributions by giving them the fullest care, support, and respect they deserve.

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the members of the Board of the Town of Wappinger, do hereby proclaim the month of May 2023 as Older Americans Month.

 IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I Richard l. Thurston, Supervisor, have hereunto set my hand this 24th day of April 2023.

 

 

Richard L. Thurston, Wappinger Town Supervisor