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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
PR- 303-10
July 6, 2010

STATEMENT OF MAYOR MICHAEL R. BLOOMBERG ON PASSING OF DR. ROBERT BUTLER, FOUNDING PRESIDENT OF THE NATIONAL INSTITUTE ON AGING AND THE INTERNATIONAL LONGEVITY CENTER IN NEW YORK

"Dr. Robert Butler's groundbreaking work in the field of aging changed how the nation and the world perceive older adults.  Coining the term 'ageism' in l968 to describe prejudice against older people, he sought to dispel the myth that older adults are destined to become frail, weak and disabled as they age.  His advocacy and writings profoundly influenced every sphere of aging policy and programs, from the creation of an aging network to services for caregivers.  During recent years, Dr. Butler provided instrumental leadership and guidance to New York City's Age Friendly Initiative, a comprehensive municipal plan recognized just this past week by the World Health Organization, which is seeking to create Age Friendly Cities around the world.  His passing is deeply mourned but he leaves a lasting legacy."







MEDIA CONTACT:


Stu Loeser   (212) 788-2958




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