About the Author: Janice L. Jacobs serves as Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs.

I am pleased to join millions of our older citizens as they celebrate Older Americans Month. The theme of this year’s celebration, “Never Too Old To Play!” puts a spotlight on the important role older adults play in sharing their experience, wisdom, and understanding, and passing on that knowledge to other generations in a variety of significant ways. International travel is increasingly one of the more popular ways that older Americans “play” as they visit new places and learn about new cultures. The experiences older Americans share with their families and friends upon return further enrich all generations in our communities.

One of the primary responsibilities of the Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs is to ensure the safety and welfare of our fellow citizens overseas. An estimated 6.3 million Americans live overseas and another 65 million travel abroad… more »