; Whereas, as local aging network leaders, Area Agencies on Aging are critical partners in the healthy aging continuum; Whereas, in 2022, an estimated 6,779,000 individuals in the United States who were 65 years of age or older continued to work as full-time, year-round employees; Whereas older individuals in the United States play an important role in society by continuing to contribute their experience, knowledge, wisdom, and accomplishments; Whereas older individuals in the United States play vital roles in their communities and remain involved in volunteer work, the arts, cultural activities, and activities relating to mentorship and civic engagement; Whereas more than 140,000 older individuals serve as AmeriCorps Seniors volunteers in the Foster Grandparent, Senior Companion Program, and the Retired and Senior Volunteer Program, helping communities by mentoring and tutoring children, providing independent living support and companionship to other older adults, addressing food insecurity, and more; and Whereas a society that recognizes the success of older individuals and continues to enhance the access of older individuals to quality and affordable health care will— (1) encourage the ongoing participation and heightened independence of older individuals; and (2) ensure the continued safety and well-being of older individuals: Now, therefore, be it