2011 Vermont Code
Title 03 Appendix Executive Orders
Chapter 33 HUMAN SERVICES
§ 13 33-13. (No. 02-05) [Governor's Commission on Healthy Aging]

Executive Order No. 33-13

(No. 02-05)

[Governor's Commission on Healthy Aging]

WHEREAS, Vermont places great value on the contributions of its senior citizens; and

WHEREAS, it is important to ensure that seniors maintain their health and remain active and involved in their communities; and

WHEREAS, 88% of Vermonters over age 65 have at least one or more chronic conditions, that are a major cause of suffering, premature mortality and morbidity, result in significant health care costs and have a negative impact on seniors' quality of life; and

WHEREAS, the lack of physical activity and poor nutrition have been identified as two leading causes of death for senior citizens; and

WHEREAS, depression and substance abuse have been identified as critical issues that affect the health and well-being of seniors; and

WHEREAS, prevention efforts and early intervention have been shown to improve the health status of seniors and to prevent or delay unnecessary treatments and services; and

WHEREAS, we now have the opportunity to create a culture in Vermont that values, promotes and supports healthy aging.

NOW THEREFORE, James H. Douglas, by virtue of the power vested in me as Governor, do hereby establish the Governor's Commission on Healthy Aging. The Commission shall be advisory to the Governor and shall have the following functions and duties:

1. To recommend ways that state government can reach out to communities and the private sector, as well as the agencies that provide services, to help make healthy aging a common theme for all seniors across Vermont;

2. To gather information on possible healthy aging programs and activities and identify potential sources of funding for such activities;

3. To assist the Departments of Health and Aging and Independent Living in the development of a plan to reduce depression among seniors;

4. To make recommendations for promoting healthy lifestyle choices for seniors including proper nutrition and physical exercise;

5. To recommend ways by which senior centers and similar facilities can better support healthy aging now and in the future;

6. To identify ways that communities can be made more accessible and senior-friendly;

7. To identify potential volunteer and work opportunities for seniors; and

8. To make recommendations as to how to promote the concept that communities must be healthy places for individuals of all ages and that healthy aging is a life-long pursuit.

The Commission shall consist of no more than fifteen members, appointed by the Governor. Members shall be appointed by the Governor to three-year terms, beginning March 1 of the year of appointment or until their successors are appointed. Initially, one-third of the members shall be appointed to one-year terms, one-third to two-year terms, and one-third to three-year terms. No member shall serve more than two consecutive terms.

Members shall include: the Commissioner of the Department of Aging and Independent Living or designee; a representative from the Vermont Department of Health familiar with mental health issues; a representative from the Vermont Department of Health familiar with substance abuse, health promotion/disease prevention, community public health and chronic diseases; a representative from the Office of Vermont Health Access; a representative of the Area Agencies on Aging; a representative of the American Association of Retired Persons (AARP); a representative of the Community of Vermont Elders (COVE); an individual familiar with housing issues; a representative of the Vermont Chamber of Commerce; a representative of the Home Health Agencies; a representative from the Vermont Association of Hospitals and Health Systems; an individual representing Vermont's municipalities; a representative from the Vermont Agency of Transportation, and two seniors who exemplify healthy aging through their w

ork as community and/or business leaders. The Governor or the Governor's designee shall chair the Commission.

The Commission shall meet at least twice annually or upon the call of the Chair and shall submit a report to the Governor each year by July 1.

This Executive Order shall expire on March 1, 2011 unless extended by the Governor.

The Commission shall be attached to the Department of Aging and Independent Living for administrative support. To the extent funds permit, members who are not employed by the state shall receive reimbursement of expenses and a per diem pursuant to 32 V.S.A. { 1010(e).

This Executive Order shall take effect upon signing.

Dated March 11, 2005.