Support a Maine Senior’s Appreciation Day

Below is testimony by John Nale of the Maine Association of Area Agencies on Aging in support of LD 560, “An Act to Establish Maine Seniors Day”:

“Good morning Honorable Members of the Joint Standing Committee on State and Local Government. My name is John Nale. I am here in support of LD 560, “An Act to Establish Maine Seniors Day.” A resident of Winslow, I am an Elder Law attorney, a member of the National Academy of Elder Law Attorneys, Volunteer President of the Maine Association of Area Agencies on Aging, and member of the Elder Law Section of the Maine State Bar Association. 

We are all very much in support of our state designating a day in appreciation for what elders have achieved for our families, our communities, our state, and indeed, our country. With improved health care, more years of productivity, and the Baby Boomer population aging in to senior status at 10,000 per day nationwide, and 10,000 per year statewide, over the next ten years the 65+ age group will account for 99% of Maine’s population growth. Seniors will definitely be playing a larger role in Maine’s future. Today, seniors are embarking on second careers, serving as caregivers to parents and grandchildren, and serving as volunteers that benefit every sector of society. 

Establishing a Maine Senior’s Appreciation Day is only the beginning. From here we should make sure our communities are good places in which to mature and age, places in which seniors can participate to the fullest and can find the encouragement, acceptance, and services they need to continue to lead lives of independence and dignity. I thank you for your consideration and this opportunity to speak in support of LD 560.”