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Governor Stein Proclaims May as Older Americans Month in North Carolina

AARP celebrates Older Americans Month

Steve Hahn,

AARP North Carolina

Published July 28, 2026

AARP staff and volunteers are joined by other advocates for older adults at the Governor's mansion in May.

Steve Hahn, AARP

RALEIGH, N.C. — North Carolina Governor Josh Stein officially proclaimed May 2026 as Older Americans Month, recognizing the contributions and importance of older adults across the state.

The proclamation, issued in late April and signed by the Governor on May 21, highlights North Carolina’s commitment to being “a great place for growing older” and emphasizes the importance of supporting seniors in maintaining a high quality of life within their communities. [governor.nc.gov]

Governor Stein joined state health leaders including AARP staff and volunteers in Raleigh to mark the occasion, underscoring the growing role of older adults in North Carolina’s population. According to state officials, nearly one in five North Carolinians is age 65 or older, and that number is expected to rise significantly in the coming decades. [cbs17.com]

“Older adults want the same things that all North Carolinians do — to live happy, healthy lives,” Stein said, pointing to ongoing efforts to strengthen support systems for aging residents. [publicnow.com]

Central to the state’s approach is the Department of Health and Human Services’ “All Ages, All Stages” initiative, a long-term plan designed to prepare North Carolina for a rapidly aging population. The program aims to improve access to healthcare, strengthen community supports, and ensure older adults can remain active and engaged in their communities.

The 2026 national theme for Older Americans Month, “Champion Your Health,” focuses on encouraging older adults to prioritize wellness, prevention, and independence.

Observed each May since its establishment in 1963, Older Americans Month serves as a time to recognize the achievements, wisdom, and ongoing contributions of older adults while raising awareness about issues affecting them. [acl.gov]

State leaders say the proclamation is both a celebration and a call to action—urging communities, families, and policymakers to work together to ensure older North Carolinians can age with dignity, health, and connection.