There are many reasons to celebrate the little things and the big things that make our world brighter, to the people who make those moments so special. “World Senior Citizens Day” gives us a special opportunity to recognize the older adults who bring their wisdom and joy to enrich our lives and communities.
For those who may not be entirely familiar with the holiday, former U.S. President Ronald Reagan signed a proclamation in 1988 recognizing the contributions and accomplishments of older adults. The inaugural “World Senior Citizens Day” took place on August 21, 1991.This year, in celebration of World Senior Citizens Day, we want to share a few ways to kick off the festivities.
Finding opportunities to participate more fully in the community and celebrate the many wonderful things that older adults bring to our lives is not only meaningful for everyone involved, but hugely impactful on improving certain neuropsychiatric symptoms, such as loneliness, boredom, and isolation. Staying active physically, cognitively, and socioemotionally has proven to generally improve not only daily standards of living but healthy long-term aging.
Having a sense of purpose, strong social connections, and opportunities to stay engaged are important factors in supporting emotional wellbeing and reducing the risk of depression among older adults, while fostering happiness, fulfillment, and a greater sense of belonging. Studies have additionally shown how strong networks and social support are linked to more active lifestyles, all of which help minimize chronic disease risk and mortality while supporting overall health outcomes.
So, whether you are an older adult interested in finding ways to get more involved in your community, or are someone celebrating an extra-special “Senior Citizen”, take a look below at some of the ways you can get involved and meaningfully support the older adults in your life.
How to Celebrate Your Older Loved Ones
Celebrating doesn’t have to be complicated. Small, thoughtful gestures can go a long way toward helping loved ones feel connected, appreciated, and included.
- Stay connected: Can be a quick call/text/video chat, or even an in-person visit
- Become pen pals: Write letters or send postcards to your loved one, or consider programs that connect older adults to elementary school students to encourage intergenerational friendships and learning
- Support the local senior community: Send notes or cards for residents of local senior/assisted living communities and care centers to brighten their day
How to Get Involved in Your Community
Getting involved in your community can be a wonderful way to stay active, build new connections, and share your time, talents, and experiences with others.
- Volunteer with local organizations: explore volunteer opportunities at senior centers, food banks, or community organizations
- Join reading program
s: Volunteer at your local schools or libraries for storytime sessions with people of all ages
- Participate in lifelong learning: Many classes and workshops are offered through local libraries, community centers, colleges, or senior organizations, and cover various topics from technology and computer skills, to writing, history, and art
- Explore new hobbies: Check out local activity groups, whether those are focused on fitness or movement, gardening, arts and crafts, music, books, or photography
Older adults have left and continue to make an incredible mark on the world around us, shaping the communities we and the generations that follow will call home. Although here at the Alliance, we celebrate the extraordinary accomplishments of older adults every day, we’re happy to have an extra-special day to recognize, appreciate, and celebrate them, too.
Lauren Belsky serves as the Development Coordinator for the Alliance for Aging Research.
