August 21st is National Senior Citizens Day! A day to celebrate the elderly and all they have done for our country. This day was created to bring awareness to the issues and concerns of senior citizens and recognize their accomplishments. In this blog post, we will discuss what National Senior Citizens Day is, when it’s celebrated, and what age group is considered a senior citizen. We will also provide some tips on how you can show your appreciation for the seniors in your life!
Overview of National Senior Citizens Day and Its Importance
National Senior Citizens Day is a day set aside to celebrate the elderly and recognize their contributions to society. It was created in 1988 by President Ronald Reagan, who issued a Presidential Proclamation declaring August 21st as National Senior Citizens Day. This day is important because it brings awareness to the issues affecting seniors and honors their hard work throughout their lives. The day is also a reminder to take care of and appreciate the older people in our lives.
Who Is Considered a Senior Citizen?
In the United States, age 65 is typically considered the start of senior adulthood. However, some states consider anyone over 55 years old to be a senior citizen.
The Vital Contribution of Seniors to Society
Senior citizens are an integral part of society, contributing through their knowledge and experience. They have shaped our world in countless ways and continue to be active members of our communities. Seniors serve in volunteer roles at hospitals, libraries, parks, and more—supporting the needs of those around them. Senior citizens also pay taxes and help support local businesses in their area.
Ways to Honor the Senior Citizens in Your Life
There are many ways to show appreciation for the seniors in your life. Here are some suggestions:
• Host a special dinner or lunch, and invite the special senior/s in your life to join you.
• Make an effort to spend quality time with them by engaging in activities they enjoy doing.
• Let them know how much you appreciate them by writing a letter or card expressing your gratitude.
• Offer to teach them something new, like a computer program or language.
• Participate in local senior citizen events and activities.
How to Celebrate National Senior Citizens Day – Ideas for Activities, Events, and Special Discounts
National Senior Citizens Day is a great time to show appreciation for the seniors in your life. Here are some ideas for activities, events, and special discounts you can use to celebrate this special day:
• Host or attend an event that celebrates seniors by showcasing their talents and accomplishments.
• Give out cards or small gifts to senior citizens in your community.
• Offer special discounts at local businesses to seniors on this day.
• Plan a trip or outing specifically for senior citizens, such as a nature walk, museum visit, or boat ride.
• Create educational programs that focus on the issues and challenges facing seniors today.
• Sponsor an essay contest or art exhibition centered around seniors and their experiences.
• Hold a volunteer day when you can help with tasks such as yard work or home repairs for seniors in need.
Resources Available to Seniors – Highlights of Programs and Organizations Devoted to Helping Seniors
There are several organizations and programs available to help seniors. Here is a list of some of the most prominent ones:
• The National Council on Aging (NCOA) – NCOA provides resources and assistance to seniors, such as financial education, nutrition programs, health screenings, preventive care services, and more.
• Senior Corps – This federal program provides senior citizens with opportunities to serve their communities through volunteer work.
• AARP – The American Association of Retired Persons is a membership organization that offers discounts and services for seniors, such as insurance programs, health and wellness resources, travel programs, financial advice, and more.
• Medicare – Medicare is a federal government-funded health insurance program covering eligible seniors’ medical services.
• Meals on Wheels – This organization delivers meals and groceries to homebound seniors in need.
Companies Offering Discounts for Senior Citizens
| Company | Discount | Eligibility |
| Honey Baked Ham | The opportunity to get discount coupons | 60 and older |
| Papa Murphy’s | 20-30% off (depending on the location) | 50 and older |
| Ross’ Stores | 10% off on Tuesdays and Wednesdays | 55 and older |
| Safeway | 10% off | 55 and older |
| Outback Steakhouse | 10% off | 50 and older |
| Shoprite | 5% off | 62 and older |
| McDonald’s | Varies by location | 55 and older |
| Culver’s | 10% off on the total bill | 60 and older |
| Albertsons | 10% off | 55 and older |
| Ross’ Stores | 10% off on Tuesdays and Wednesdays | 55 and older |
Tips on How to Stay Healthy and Active as a Senior Citizen
Staying healthy and active is important for seniors to maintain their independence and quality of life. Here are some tips on how to stay healthy as a senior citizen:
• Exercise regularly – Get at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity per day, such as walking or swimming.
• Eat a balanced diet – Choose nutrient-rich foods from all the food groups, and limit your intake of processed foods, sugar, and saturated fat.
• Get quality sleep – Aim for at least 7–9 hours of restful sleep each night.
• Stay socially connected – Take part in activities or hobbies with others to stay engaged with the world around you.
• Practice good hygiene – Keep your skin and teeth clean to maintain overall health.
• Maintain regular health screenings – Have your vision, hearing, and blood pressure checked regularly to help catch any potential health issues early on.
• Visit your doctor as needed – Ensure you are up-to-date with all recommended vaccinations and medical treatments.
• Keep your mind active – Read books, do puzzles, and engage in activities that exercise your brain and stimulate thinking.
• Take preventive measures – Wear a seatbelt when traveling in a car, wear sunscreen outdoors, and use hearing protection when necessary.
Conclusion
Senior Citizens Day is a day to honor and celebrate the wisdom, life experience, and contributions of our senior citizens. By offering discounts at local businesses, planning trips or outings specifically for seniors, creating educational programs that focus on their issues and needs, sponsoring essay contests or art exhibitions centered around them, or volunteering your time to help with tasks such as home repairs or yard work, you can show your appreciation for our seniors and all they have done. Taking the time to learn more about the resources available to seniors and how to stay healthy and active is an additional way to help ensure their quality of life. On Senior Citizens Day, let’s come together to recognize and appreciate our senior citizens!
Morgan Elfman is a compassionate writer, dedicated caregiver, and passionate advocate for senior well-being. Born and raised with a deep sense of empathy and a natural inclination towards service, Morgan has devoted her life to making a positive impact on the lives of seniors.
As a writer for www.choiceseniorlife.com, Morgan utilizes his skills to create insightful and informative content that addresses the unique needs and challenges faced by seniors and their families. Her articles not only provide valuable information on health, lifestyle, and care options but also strive to inspire and empower seniors to lead fulfilling lives.
