World Senior Citizens Day 2023: Date, history, and significance

Senior citizens play an important role in our lives. They are the ones to plant the seeds of a brighter future. Every year on August 21, World Senior Citizens Day is observed to raise awareness about issues affecting the and to recognise their contributions to society. Ronald Reagan, former President of the United States, created World Senior Citizens Day in 1988. 

On this day, countries participate in creating an environment that supports the social well-being of elderly people. The day holds significance as there are several reports showing elderly citizens being abused by their own children. Reports also said that they are considered a burden and are asked to live in old-age homes.

World Senior Citizen’s Day 2023: History and Significance

On August 19, 1988,  US President Ronald Reagan declared that Senior Citizens Day will be celebrated on August 21 throughout the country. Reagan recognised the achievements made by the older generation in his nation. He made the initiative to provide proper healthcare facilities by ensuring a safe environment for them and creating a life full of dignity and a sense of freedom.

The day plays a significant role as the older generation will reach a population of 1.5 billion or more by the end of 2050. 

World Senior Citizen Day 2023: Quotes

“Education is the best provision for old age” - Aristotle

“Wrinkles should merely indicate where smiles have been” - Mark Twain

“Every time I think that I’m getting old, and gradually going to the grave, something else happens" - Lillian Carter

“The good thing about being old is not being young” - Stephen Richards