Governor Stein Proclaims Older Americans Month

Older Americans Month

2026

By The Governor Of The State Of North Carolina

A Proclamation

Whereas, North Carolina strives to be a great place for growing older while thriving within families, neighborhoods, and communities and being supported to maintain a high quality of life; and 

Whereas, North Carolina continues to be recognized as one of the best states in which to retire, ranking ninth in the number of people aged 65 and older; and one in five North Carolinians are projected to be aged 65 or older; and 

Whereas, the U.S. Administration for Community Living has designated the 2026 theme for Older Americans Month as “Champion Your Health,” emphasizing prevention, wellness, and self-management and encouraging older adults to take active roles in their health and independence; and 

Whereas, North Carolina must ensure that its older residents have the resources and support needed to stay involved in their communities, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and connectedness; and 

Whereas, the Governor’s Advisory Council on Aging and the Senior Tar Heel Legislature promote awareness of issues surrounding aging and advocate for older adults; and 

Whereas, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services leads the All Ages All Stages NC: Roadmap to Aging and Living Well initiative, which represents the culmination of a multisector planning process to make sure North Carolina is an age-friendly state where aging is viewed not as a limitation but as a journey filled with purpose, exploration, and connection;

Now, Therefore, I, Josh Stein, Governor of the State of North Carolina, do hereby proclaim May 2026 as “Older Americans Month” in North Carolina and commend its observance to all residents.

In Witness Whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and affixed the Great Seal of the State of North Carolina at the Capitol in Raleigh this twenty-seventh day of April in the year of our Lord two thousand and twenty-sixth and of the Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and fiftieth.