BILL REQ. #:  H-4829.1 

Read first time .   Referred to .

     TO THE HONORABLE CHRISTINE GREGOIRE, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, AND TO THE LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY OF EACH COUNTY, AND TO THE COUNCIL ON AGING, AND TO EACH MEMBER OF CONGRESS FROM THE STATE OF WASHINGTON:
     We, your Memorialists, the Senate and House of Representatives of the State of Washington, in legislative session assembled, respectfully represent and petition as follows:
     WHEREAS, Washington's population age 65 and over, estimated at 696,555 in 2004, is expected to reach 812,200 by 2010, 1.2 million by 2020 and over 1.6 million by 2030; and
     WHEREAS, There needs to be a new holistic approach which changes the planning system from the current narrow focus on managing dependency for vulnerable older people to promote inclusion and active aging for the older population as a whole; and
     WHEREAS, This new approach must enable older people, both as individuals and collectively, to be directly engaged as equal partners in decision making and planning services that affect their lives; and
     WHEREAS, Change that enhances older adults' quality of life will improve conditions for everyone because elder friendly communities are good places for people of all ages to live; and
     WHEREAS, Implementing change that enhances older adults' quality of life will require a commitment from people of all ages, and the result will be a community that is friendly for old and young alike;
     NOW, THEREFORE, Your Memorialists respectfully pray that the executive branch of the State of Washington and the legislative authorities of each county promote a comprehensive, statewide effort that will engage the public and private sectors to: (1) Celebrate older age, recognize the value of older people, and adequately respect their contributions to society, both individually and as a whole; (2) encourage people of all ages to prepare for retirement and old age; (3) develop "age sensitive" service infrastructures that support people as they age; (4) establish and adapt existing services to recognize and accommodate the needs of older adults; (5) build and adapt physical infrastructures that support people as they age; (6) promote creative ways for the state's aging population to utilize their talents, skills, and experience in both paid and unpaid roles; (7) promote flexibility in the workplace to accommodate and support the vital role played by family caregivers; and (8) promote the health and well-being of older persons.
     BE IT RESOLVED, That copies of this Memorial be immediately transmitted to the Honorable Christine Gregoire, Governor of the State of Washington, the legislative authority of each county, the Council on Aging, and each member of Congress from the State of Washington.