Celebrate Senior Citizens Day
In 1988 Ronald Reagan, who was the US president at the time, declared August 21 to be National Senior Citizens Day.
This day was created as a day to support, honor and show appreciation to our seniors and to recognize their achievements. Their valuable contributions to our communities create better places to live.
National Senior Citizens Day recognizes contributions senior citizens make in communities across the United States.
Various events and activities are organized on Senior Citizens Day to raise awareness of supporting older people and recognizing their achievements. Some people raise awareness through social media and news stories, while others organize special community gatherings inviting senior citizens, their families, friends and volunteers. Some businesses give special discounts or deals to senior citizens on or around August 21.
National Senior Citizens Day is an observance and not a public holiday in the US.
Here are a few ways you too can celebrate National Senior Citizens Day:
- Visit your family member or loved one. The simple presence of a friend or a hug from a family member can help raise cortisol levels and reduce stress. Even simple eye contact can help encourage feelings of connection.
- Start a family history project. Interviewing senior loved ones about their memories and experiences gives them an opportunity to share wisdom and advice, and provides a unique chance to start collecting those old family stories and photos. Plus it’s a great conversation starter.
- Make small talk. As noted above, researchers have found that even a brief interaction — a smile, a quick conversation — can cheer people up for the day.
- Practice random acts of kindness. Visit community centers or drop in to an assisted living community for a chat. Bring a pack of cards. Sit and visit for awhile.
Truly, it is the little things that end up being the most valuable and often most memorable.
Start today in honor of National Senior Citizens Day, but keep carrying out these tips throughout the year and your families will be stronger and happier.
This observance was established in honor of senior citizens in the US who made positive contributions in their communities. The day was also created to bring awareness of social, health, and economic issues that affect senior citizens.
