World Senior Citizen Day 2023: Know how it started & why it’s important not just for elderly
This day was officially designated World Senior Citizen Day by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1990.
New Delhi: Recognizing and appreciating the people who carry a lifetime of knowledge and wisdom is crucial in a world that is always changing. Every year, on August 21, the world recognises the value of its senior citizens by commemorating World Senior Citizen Day. On December 14th, 1990, the United Nations General Assembly made the announcement public for the first time.
World Senior Citizen Day serves as a reminder that we must promote intergenerational relationships, push for supporting legislation, and guarantee that the essential lessons of our elders continue to enhance our lives as societies work to become more inclusive and respectful of people of all ages.
History
Former US President Ronald Reagan issued Proclamation 5847 on August 19, 1988, designating August 21 as National Senior Citizen’s Day, marking the beginning of what has now become known as World Senior Citizen’s Day. He declared August 21 as International Senior Citizens’ Day.
It was 1988, when, through Proclamation 5847, Reagan deemed today as the day America would celebrate seniors. But his words may hold even more validity over 30 years later as older people are living longer, healthier and more productive lives than ever before.#SeniorCitizenDay pic.twitter.com/U0NtmXiHF7
— Wealth Management at HVCU (@WMhvcu) August 21, 2020
This day was officially designated World Senior Citizen Day by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1990. Since then, annual celebrations have been held in recognition of the contributions made by grandparents and parents.
The purpose of the day was to celebrate the nation’s seniors and draw attention to the need for policies and initiatives that promote their well-being.
Significance
Older people have life experience and knowledge that may be invaluable to the education of today’s youth. By passing on knowledge and information from one generation to the next, they also contribute to the preservation of cultural traditions.
World Senior Citizen Day is a great opportunity to honour the contributions of our senior citizens and to advocate for legislation that will make their lives better. The purpose of this day is to promote cultural exchange and intergenerational bonds by encouraging younger people to spend quality time with the older.
On this World Senior Citizen’s Day, let us make a pledge to be more sensitive towards the issues faced by senior citizens.
Their contributions hold great significance in the development of the nation, and it is our responsibility to ensure a peaceful life for them. pic.twitter.com/LYHksaNSRf
— Pralhad Joshi (@JoshiPralhad) August 21, 2022
It promotes conversation regarding ageing-related topics including healthcare, housing for the elderly, and the value of mental and physical stimulation in old life.
Awareness of the importance of elderly citizens’ needs and rights is heightened on World Senior Citizen Day.
Theme this Year
Facilitating and maximising the elderly’s positive impact on younger generations.