August 21st is a day to celebrate the contributions of senior citizens. There are many ways you can honor the hard work and dedication that seniors have given throughout their lives. This day helps to raise awareness of the issues that affect senior citizens and what can be done to help improve their quality of life.
The History of Senior Citizens Day
President Ronald Reagan proclaimed it Senior Citizens Day in 1988, and since then, America has been celebrating. The day is about honoring them and recognizing their efforts and contributions to society.
In 1988 Ronald Reagan made it a holiday to remember the contributions of senior citizens. It was at this time that he signed Proclamation 5847 and marked August 21st as the day the achievements of seniors would be celebrated.
Why is Senior Citizens Day Important?
This day helps raise awareness for what issues affect seniors in America today like Alzheimer’s, dementia, and health. The day also encourages seniors to talk about their experiences as they age.
Senior citizens are known to be philanthropic, often donating time and money to charitable causes. It is a quality we love in our elders, as they look out for their loved ones with care.
More than just a celebration for our elders, Senior Citizens Day honors the wisdom of those who have seen more of life and learned from its experiences. Our elderly friends and family have loads of valuable experiences and knowledge to offer. For centuries, cultures across the world have looked to their elders for insight. We can make time for them in our busy lives if we listen – they’ll always tell us how it is!
This day helps to raise awareness of the issues that affect senior citizens and what can be done to help improve their quality of life.
If you have elderly loved ones, make time to celebrate with them! Take some of the following ideas and turn them
into a celebration:
- Plan an outing or event at your local senior center.
- Take them out for ice cream, lunch, or dinner. Spend some quality time together outside of their everyday routine.
- Ask each one what they would like to do for the day.
- Visit a museum, library or retail store with them and tell their stories as you show them around.
Final Thoughts
Have you thanked a senior today? If not, make it your mission to do so. Whether they are driving the car in front of you on the freeway or helping their grandchildren with homework, seniors deserve our recognition and appreciation every day! Show them that we care about them by thanking them for everything they’ve done for us throughout their lives. Go out there and spread some love today, and give back to those who have given so much already!