MONTGOMERY-Thursday, August 21, 2014 is National Senior Citizens Day! On this day, we celebrate the people who are part of the fastest-growing demographic in the world. The population of adults 65 years and older has increased from 35.5 million in 2002 to 43.1 million in 2012 (a 21% increase) and is projected to more than double to 92 million in 2060. By 2040, there will be about 80 million older persons, over twice their number in 2000!
National Senior Citizens Day began in 1988, when President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the holiday to celebrate the contributions of older adults in our society and provide an opportunity to acknowledge and promote awareness for their unique contributions to society. “For all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish, we owe older citizens our thanks and a heartfelt salute” said President Reagan while discussing National Seniors Citizens Day. “We can best demonstrate our gratitude and esteem by making sure that our communities are good 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.”
In honor of National Senior Citizens Day, spend time with your favorite senior; send a personal note of thanks to the older adults who have made a positive impact on your life; volunteer at a senior center or retirement home; invite an older family member over for dinner and ask them to share their life’s cherished accomplishments; show your support and concern for our seniors by helping them find the resources and tools they need to live securely and independently. The Alabama Department of Senior Services and your local Area Agency on Aging have a plethora of resources – call 1-800-AGELINE for more information.
Finally, if you are a senior citizen, then enjoy this day any way you desire. After all, this is your special day!
MEDIA RELEASE/ALABAMA DEPARTMENT OF SENIOR SERVICES
