According to the U.S. Census Bureau, approximately 78 million people aged 65 and older will reside in America by 2035. This figure will surpass the number of the population under the age of 18 for the first time in the nation’s history.
Where did Senior Citizens Day come from?
Honoring our older generations in an official capacity began in 1935, when President Franklin Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act on August 14. Each year on that date, National Senior Citizens Day was marked. Then, in 1988 President Ronald Reagan, declared the third Sunday of August to be National Senior Citizens Day.
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. This year, Senior Citizens Day will be marked on August 21st.
What we owe to our senior loved ones, colleagues, and friends
Let’s be frank: we wouldn’t be where we are today without today’s older Americans. They have spent their lives contributing to their families and communities, impacting our society as a whole. Their workplace accomplishments and expertise are a source of inspiration and professional development for younger generations.
Indeed, the country’s foundation and stable sectors are the result of the hard work of our senior citizens and they deserve our respect and gratitude.
In the words of President Reagan, “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.”
This August 21st, remember to take the time to appreciate the senior citizens in your life. If it weren’t for them, there would be no us.
Dr. Macie P. Smith is a licensed gerontology social worker who is focused on helping families support their aging loved ones through long-term care. Specifically, Dr. Smith educates caregivers on how to care for seniors with dementia. She is an advocate for specialized care and assists others in finding a way to provide a better quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer’s or dementia. Dr. Smith has dedicated over 22 years of her life working in gerontology and assisting families in finding personalized solutions for dementia care. For more articles by Dr. Macie Smith, go to https://synergyhomecare.com/blog/.
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