Item 11: Draft Recommendation — original pdf

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BOARD/COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION Commission on Aging Recommendation Number: 20260610-011: Healthy Aging Month– September WHEREAS, the Austin Quality of Life Study for Older Adults found that physical and social well-being is essential infrastructure for healthy aging1; and WHEREAS, Healthy Aging Month2 promotes positive aging and encourages older adults to take steps to improve their physical, mental, social, and emotional well-being3; and WHEREAS, access to preventive care, nutritious food, safe housing, physical activity, transportation, and social connection are key factors in healthy aging4; and WHEREAS, Austin’s older adults enrich the community through volunteerism, caregiving, civic participation, and sharing of experience and knowledge5, 6; and WHEREAS, community-based services and programs help older adults maintain independence, reduce isolation, and remain connected to their neighborhoods and support systems7; and WHEREAS, the City of Austin recognizes the importance of promoting Age-Friendly policies and equitable access to resources that support healthy aging for all residents. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED that the Commission on Aging encourages the Austin City Council to proclaim September 2026 as “Healthy Aging Month” in Austin and encourage Austinites, caregivers, health professionals, community organizations, and policymakers to support programs, services, and 1 Austin Older Adult Quality of Life Study 2025-CAC-University of Indianapolis.pdf - Google Drive 2 While Healthy Aging Month originated with Healthy Aging® magazine more than 15 years ago, the broader concept of "healthy aging" is now strongly aligned with the World Health Organization and the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing (2021–2030), which gives the observance additional credibility beyond its original creation. 3 Healthy Aging at Any Age | Healthy Aging | CDC 4 Social Determinants of Health - Healthy People 2030 | odphp.health.gov 5 Older Adults Contributing to Society: Why It Matters 6 The Impact Of Senior Volunteering On The Community - Senior Strong 7 The Impact of Home- and Community-Based Services on the Health of Older Adults: A Meta-Analysis - Xuanru Lyu, Yangyang Fan, 2024 healthy lifestyle practices that promote dignity, independence, wellness, and quality of life for older adults. Date of Approval: _____________________________ Record of the vote: Attest: _____________________________________________