National Seniors Day 2024
Spread the word!
October 1st is National Seniors Day in Canada, which also coincides with the United Nations International Day of Older Persons. Join us in celebrating the older adults in our lives and communities. Seniors make up a large and growing part of our population and it is important to recognize their contributions and the various roles they occupy.
As social workers (and humans), we may be acutely aware of the various challenges and discrimination that older adults face. Let us shine light on the strengths, abilities, and stories of the seniors around us. Doing so can generate more awareness about seniors’ inequities, as well as tangible solutions, and ultimately positive change.
This year, the United Nations theme for the International Day of Older Persons is Ageing with Dignity: The Importance of Strengthening Care and Support Systems for Older Persons Worldwide. As our population continues to age, the demand for caregiving supports (both informal and formal) as well as healthcare and social service supports continues to grow and shift. This universal phenomenon requires urgent attention and affects us all.
It doesn't matter how you choose to recognize the older adults in your life or community, but consider doing something. As we know, the smallest gestures can have a big impact on others. Here are a few ideas to celebrate the seniors around you:
Connect; call, visit, go for a walk, send a postcard, or Facetime
Offer to help with outside chores/fall yard clean-up
Offer to run errands/accompany a senior for an outing/coffee date
Take a trip down memory lane; looking through photo albums
Watch an old movie/show together with their favourite snacks
Spread awareness of this day on social media by sharing/posting about it
Share resources available to seniors
Connect with recreation therapy/co-workers, as possible, to hold a formal celebration
Remember - you don’t need to wait until October 1st each year to celebrate seniors. If you have the ability, consider connecting with the seniors in your life more often. Showing your appreciation, curiosity, and concern, can help strengthen individual connections, as well as our communities.
Written by MSW practicum student, Katie Pratt.
Further readings:
Resources for seniors in Alberta:
Resources to help seniors age in their community | Alberta.ca