National Senior Citizens Day
In 1988 President Ronald Reagan signed a document, titled Proclamation 5847, declaring August 21st National Senior Citizens Day. Every year since its creation, this day has been reserved to honor the contributions of senior citizens and to show our appreciation. With over 54 million Americans over the age of 65, odds are you have a close friend or family member who deserves to be acknowledged for their achievements. Here are a few ways to celebrate National Senior Citizens Day to show appreciation for the knowledge they have bestowed and for their continuing accomplishments.
Spend time with a Senior Citizen
Take them to lunch or dinner, take them to visit their favorite place, go to a movie, or take them to a local festival or farmer’s market. If a day out on the town is too much for them there are plenty of things to do at home. Have a cup of tea and chat, watch an old movie, or play a card game.
Send a Message
If you cannot physically spend time with your loved one, send them a card to remind them that you are thinking of them. Everyone loves receiving cards.
Have a Conversation
As simple as it sounds it has a big impact. Ask about their day or a TV show they enjoy. Ask what life was like when they were your age. What was their favorite activity? First car? Listen to their stories and wisdom.
Host a Luncheon
Invite your special senior over for a luncheon with family and their friends. This is a fun and sure way to make them feel appreciated.
Help a Senior
Do you have an elderly neighbor or friend in the community? Offer to run errands, cut their lawn, take them to an appointment, or make them dinner.
Volunteer
Time is free but it is priceless. Volunteer at a local assisted living facility, nursing home, or senior center. Even if you do not have much time, a smile and a short conversation with residents who do not have visitors will certainly make their day. Contact a senior living facility and see if they need help with any upcoming events, if they accept donations, or if you can drop of something as simple as cookies or flowers to brighten up their day.
Encourage Others
People are always on social media. Use this means to encourage friends to celebrate this day and show their appreciation.
“Throughout our history, older people have achieved much for our families, our communities, and our country. That remains true today, and gives us ample reason this year to reserve a special day in honor of the senior citizens who mean so much to our land.
For all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish, we owe older citizens our thanks and a heartfelt salute. We can best demonstrate our gratitude and esteem by making sure that our communities are good places in which to mature and grow older — places in which older people can participate to the fullest and can find the encouragement, acceptance, assistance, and services they need to continue to lead lives of independence and dignity.”
-President Ronald Reagan, Proclamation 5847