The House Aging and Older Adult Services Committee unanimously approved a resolution recognizing Oct. 9 as Ageism Awareness Day in Pennsylvania.

Chair Madden, who introduced the resolution, said the state’s aging population is the fastest-growing demographic and warned that by 2030 people in their 60s will outnumber those in their 20s. “We have to make sure that we don’t discount our seniors,” she said, arguing the resolution is intended to encourage respect for older Pennsylvanians and to combat age-based prejudice.

Members echoed the need to preserve opportunities for older adults to contribute to their communities and emphasized supports that help seniors age with dignity and access services such as Meals on Wheels and socialization programs.

The committee recorded no negative votes and approved the resolution unanimously.

The resolution will be forwarded as a nonbinding recognition to the full House.