May Is Older Americans Month, Morris Co. Commissioners Declare

MORRIS COUNTY, NJ — The Morris Board of County Commissioners is putting in the effort to value its older citizens by signing a proclamation declaring May 2021 as Older Americans Month.

The document was signed during a board’s public meeting last Wednesday night. The presentation was live-streamed from the Commissioner Director’s county office in Morristown.

The proclamation refers to the growing number of older residents living in Morris and the county's commitment to supporting that same group of people.

"Morris County recognizes the importance of maintaining interactions and relationships among all generations in our community, as well as engaging in activities that promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of everyone," the document reads.

It also lists a number of measures that can improve the quality of life for older people, such as providing opportunities for them to work, volunteer, learn, lead, and mentor.

During the ceremony, officials praised the efforts by county commissioners to support the elder with public-funded programs, especially during the pandemic.

“Older Americans come in many varieties, shapes and forms,” said Tom Mazzaccaro, Chairman of the Morris County Advisory Council on Aging, Disabilities, and Veterans. “They are the backbone of Morris County. There are 85,000 older Americans in Morris County, which represents 2o percent of our population. That’s a tremendous number. They are probably a higher percentage of voters in the county, so elected officials — keep that in mind.”