WHEREAS, Virginia is home to nearly two million people over the age of 60, making up over 22 percent of its population; and

WHEREAS, older Virginians are an integral part of our communities, contributing through their service, caretaking, careers, and family life; and

WHEREAS, preventive care and healthy living, including access to nutritious food, regular physical activity, social connection, lifelong learning, and safe, inclusive environments, can promote well-being and enhance quality of life throughout older age; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia provides essential resources to older Virginians through Area Agencies on Aging, which annually serve more than 76,000 individuals through nutritious meals, in-home services, wellness calls, and other programs that combat senior hunger, reduce social isolation, and support aging in place; and

WHEREAS, Healthy Aging Month promotes awareness and encourages Virginians to recognize opportunities for continued growth, discovery, and meaningful intergenerational connections that enrich the lives of older Virginians; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth remains committed to fostering an environment that promotes safety, independence, and well-being for older Virginians through public programs, services, and leadership;

NOW THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize September 2026 as HEALTHY AGING MONTH in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all of our citizens.