BILL REQ. #:  H-0279.1 

Prefiled 12/09/08. Read first time 01/12/09.   Referred to Committee on State Government & Tribal Affairs.

     TO THE HONORABLE CHRISTINE GREGOIRE, GOVERNOR OF THE STATE OF WASHINGTON, AND TO THE LEGISLATIVE AUTHORITY OF EACH COUNTY, 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 aged 65 and over, estimated at 710,501 in 2005, is expected to reach 818,437 by 2010, 1.23 million by 2020, and over 1.66 million by 2030; and
     WHEREAS, There needs to be a new holistic approach that changes the planning system from the current narrow focus on managing dependency for vulnerable older adults to promoting inclusion and active aging for the older population as a whole; and
     WHEREAS, This new approach must enable older adults, 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 aging-ready 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; and
     WHEREAS, Forums on preparing for an aging society have been held in Snohomish County and Spokane and are being planned for other communities around the state;
     NOW THEREFORE, Your Memorialists respectfully urge 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 adults, 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 encourage active, healthy aging and 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 adults.     
     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, and each member of Congress from the state of Washington.