Governor Newsom proclaims Older Californians Month

SACRAMENTO - Governor Gavin Newsom today issued a proclamation declaring May 2026, as "Older Californians Month."

The text of the proclamation and a copy can be found below:

PROCLAMATION

California is home to nearly nine million older residents who immeasurably enrich our families and communities through their diverse life experiences, cultures, and contributions. For the first time in our state's history, Californians aged 60 or older now outnumber those under 18. By 2030, one in four Californians will be 60 years or older, nearly one million will be 85 years or older, and approximately 10,000 people will be age 100 or older.

Our growing population of older adults represents different communities and backgrounds, each with invaluable perspectives and knowledge. California's Master Plan for Aging champions inclusive policies and programs that benefit the current and future population of older adults. It is these policies that strengthen healthcare and home and community-based services; accelerate progress in Alzheimer's and related dementia screening and research; transform the behavioral health system; advance climate protection and disaster readiness; and promote social inclusion and intergenerational engagement. California continues its commitment to listening to people and the communities they represent to help to inform and shape policies that support all Californians as they age.

This year's theme for Older Californians Month, "Champion Your Health," highlights prevention and wellness as cornerstones of healthy aging. In California, this means adopting a whole-of-society approach to ensure everyone has the ability to age well in the setting of their choice. Together, through state and local age and disability planning, we are creating communities where every Californian is engaged and can thrive as they age.

The positive impact of our diverse and growing aging population is seen every day, from the record numbers of older adults in the workforce to the countless retirees and neighbors who volunteer their time to build up communities across the state. This month and throughout the year, let us all celebrate the older Californians who have contributed decades of knowledge, skills, and wisdom to our state and continue working towards a better future for Californians of every generation.

NOW THEREFORE I, GAVIN NEWSOM, Governor of the State of California, do hereby proclaim May 2026, as "Older Californians Month."

IN WITNESS WHEREOF I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the State of California to be affixed this 17^th day of May 2026.

GAVIN NEWSOM
Governor of California

ATTEST:
SHIRLEY N. WEBER, Ph.D.
Secretary of State