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By Lance Robertson, Assistant Secretary for Aging and
Administrator, ACL
Our Declaration of Independence says,
We hold these truths to be self-evident that all men are
created equal, that they are endowed by their creator with certain
unalienable rights, that among these are life, liberty and the pursuit of
Happiness.
From providing services that make it possible for people to
live in their own homes, to ensuring that all people have equal access to
health care, the work we do together upholds those unalienable rights --
and defends independence -- for people with disabilities and for older
adults.
It seems very fitting to celebrate our work as we celebrate
our nation’s Independence Day!
I am so proud of the dedication, innovation and tireless
advocacy we have seen every day from both the aging and disability networks
across the country, and from our team here at ACL. Over the last several
months, we have worked hard together -- both to slow the spread of the
disease to ensure that older adults and people with disabilities continue
to have the support they need to live safely in the community as we get
through this challenging time.
As we head into holiday celebrations that often include
gatherings with family and friends, it is more important than ever for us
to take individual actions to protect ourselves, the people around us, and
the people at greatest risk.
As the U.S. Surgeon General said in his Independence
Day message, “If we want to get back to school, back to work,
back to worship, and back to overall health, there are things our country
needs to do.”
These include:
- Following state and local
guidelines
- Taking extra precautions if
we are at higher risk ourselves
– or if we live with, or regularly are in contact with people who are
- Wash our hands frequently
- Maintain physical distance
of at least six feet
- Wear a face covering when
you can’t maintain physical distance
I’m committing to taking personal responsibility, because
#COVIDStopsWithMe. Will you join me?
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