Did you know that
over one in every eight, or 13.1%, of the population is an
older American? The older population (65+) reached 40.4 million in 2010, an
increase of 5.4 million or 15.3% since 2000.
In 1963, Older
Americans Month was established. Roughly
a third of older Americans lived in poverty and there were few programs to meet
their needs. Interest in older Americans and their concerns were growing,
however. In April of 1963, President John F. Kennedy's meeting with the
National Council of Senior Citizens served as a prelude to designating May as
"Senior Citizens Month."
Thanks to
President Jimmy Carter's 1980 designation, what was once called Senior Citizens
Month, is now called "Older Americans Month," and has become a
tradition.
Historically,
Older Americans Month has been a time to acknowledge the contributions of past
and current older persons to our country, in particular those who defended our
country. Every President since JFK has issued a formal proclamation during or
before the month of May asking that the entire nation pay tribute in some way
to older persons in their communities. Older Americans Month is celebrated
across the country through ceremonies, events, fairs and other activities.
This pouch offers a great idea for
seniors that do a lot of traveling. It is a secure option for keeping the
passport, photo I.D. , boarding pass, travelers checks and etc. that can
all be held in one convenient pouch and is worn around the neck.
Sources: 8 May 2012. http://www.aoa.gov/aoaroot/Press_Room/Observances/oam/archive/archive.aspx.
9 May 2012. http://www.aoa.gov/AoARoot/Aging_Statisttics/Profile/2011/2.aspx.
