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2 <br /> needed check-up. Unpaid caregivers save the United States an estimated $600 billion <br /> annually. How caregivers age and support their loved ones is changing as they strive to <br /> age here in a supportive, caring community. <br /> President Lyndon B. Johnson signed the Older Americans Act into law in July 1965. Since that <br /> time, the Act has provided a nationwide aging services network and funding that helps older adults <br /> live with dignity in the communities of their choice for as long as possible. These services include <br /> senior centers, daily lunch programs, caregiver support, community-based assistance, preventive <br /> health services, elder abuse prevention, and much more. <br /> While the Department on Aging offers outstanding programs and services to older adults year- <br /> round, Older Americans Month offers an opportunity to emphasize how older adults can access <br /> the home- and community-based services they need to live independently in their communities. <br /> It is also an occasion to highlight how the community is involved in implementing the 2022-27 <br /> Master Aging Plan and the continuing efforts to develop Orange County as an Age Friendly <br /> Community. <br /> Today there are over 36,000 Orange County residents who are 60+ and, of that group, 2,500 are <br /> age 85+. As large numbers of baby boomers reach retirement age, it is the County's goal to keep <br /> them physically and socially active through their 90s and beyond. Lifelong participation in <br /> community, social, creative and physical activities have proven health benefits, including retaining <br /> mobility, muscle mass and cognitive abilities. Older adults are not the only ones who benefit from <br /> their engagement in community life. Studies show their interactions with family, friends, and <br /> neighbors across generations enrich the lives of everyone involved. <br /> Everyone should celebrate aging and the journey! <br /> FINANCIAL IMPACT: There is no financial impact associated with approval of the proclamation. <br /> ALIGNMENT WITH STRATEGIC PLAN: This item supports: <br /> • GOAL 2: HEALTHY COMMUNITY <br /> OBJECTIVE 7. Invest in services and programs that improve the health and quality of life <br /> of the community. <br /> RECOMMENDATION(S): The Manager recommends that the Board approve the proclamation <br /> designating May 2026 as Older Americans Month and authorize the Chair to sign the <br /> proclamation. <br />