August 21 World Senior Citizens Day : History, Importance and Motive

World Senior Citizens Day is commemorated on August 21 to respect the contributions of older people, honour them, and address the challenges they face in the society In a world that is continually developing, it becomes crucial to acknowledge and respect the citizens who carry a lifetime of experiences and intelligence. And here is the World Senior Citizens Day, celebrated every year on August 21, to focus on the achievements and contributions of older people to society. In India, a senior citizen means any individual who has accomplished the age of sixty years or above. In simple words, senior citizens are older individuals, particularly the retired people. As the global population ages, the recognition serves as a suggestion to respect their insight, honour their accomplishments, and address the difficulties they face. It is critically important to know the history behind the day, the importance and the reason for observing this day. World Senior Citizen Day: History The commencement of the observance of the day can be traced back to the efforts of the former President of the US, Ronald Reagan. In 1988, President Reagan gave a proclamation announcing August 21st as National Senior Citizens Day in the US. The date of August 21st was also picked as it matches with the birthday of former US President Benjamin Harrison, a respectable senior citizens' rights advocate. Post that the Day was first announced by the United Nations General Assembly on December 14, 1990. The recognition aimed to bring issues to light about the problems influencing older citizens and to promote a fair and just society for them. Senior Citizen Day: Importance Celebration of the World Senior Citizens Day is significantly important in many aspects, many of which we talk about here: 1. Contributions- It acknowledges the significant contributions and commitments seniors have made all through their lives, whether in the workforce, families, or communities. 2. Poise- It underlines the significance of approaching senior residents with dignity and respect, regardless of their age-related difficulties. 3. Awareness- The day reveals insight into the different issues influencing seniors, including medical care, social isolation, monetary security, and elder abuse. 4. Communications- It urges young people to engage and interact with their elders, bridging generational gaps and safeguarding customs and social legacy. 5. Rights- This serves as a stage to advocate for the rights of senior residents, guaranteeing they approach medical care, social services, and a satisfying life. Senior Citizen Day : Celebration The World Senior Citizen Day celebration can take many structures. Communities, companies, and people can take part by organising events, for example, seminars, workshops, health camps, social exhibitions, and intergenerational exercises. These exercises assist with advancing a feeling of solidarity and common respect among generations. World Senior Citizen Day is a day of appreciation, reflection, and activity. It features the significant effect that senior citizens have on us and underlines the significance of recognizing and addressing their requirements. As we honor their commitments, we also endeavour to make a world that acknowledges and honours the wisdom and experiences of people at each phase of life.