We can’t let this day pass without giving some loving attention to all of the Seniors we know, among our employees, among our clients, and in our communities. National Senior Citizens Day is also World Senior Citizens day, so this is a global commemoration in honor of all of our Seniors. Gratitude is the Attitude!
We’re going to begin by utilizing a quote from census.gov which feels truly appropriate. “National Senior Citizens Day recognizes seniors who have spent their lives contributing to society and have impacted everyone’s lives for the better. Improved healthcare has changed demographics and increased productivity of older citizens. The country’s foundation and stable sectors are the result of the hard work of our senior citizens and they deserve all our gratitude.”
President Ronald Reagan signed Proclamation 5847 that marked August 21 as the day Seniors will be celebrated. His words at that commemoration are inspiring as well. “We can best demonstrate our gratitude and esteem by making sure that our communities are good places in which to mature and grow older — 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.”
There are many Seniors living very productive lives far into their elder years, maintaining good health and strength, and enjoying life fully. We have Seniors among our governmental leaders and they are serving with wisdom, experience and care. Around the world we have Seniors at top levels in our corporations, businesses, places of worship and in all types of employment. We are grateful for the Seniors working at AMS. Experience is a treasure and we very much value diversity in our workforce.
It is also true that many Seniors need the services of community organizations. In alignment with President Reagan’s statement, we would like to uplift a community nonprofit organization that AMS has supported for many years, Senior Concerns.
Senior Concerns Adult Day Center offers activities and programs for Seniors with cognitive or physical impairments. They also deliver hot lunches and evening meals to homebound Seniors with their Meals on Wheels program, helping Seniors to remain in their homes for as long as possible. They provide caregiver support, legal and financial advocate services and volunteer opportunities. The organization’s website speaks of the work they do, and we encourage you to visit. HERE
“We are now a society of more old than young, necessitating a new world order for aging. At Senior Concerns, seniors come alive with enjoyment, affection and contentment, challenging the old age paradigms of losing one’s mind, capabilities or social connectedness. Community members unite to serve the very people who helped build the life we have today. Family caregivers are valued and celebrated. Our lifespans are designed as a process of continuous growth and development. At Senior Concerns it doesn’t end when we get old.”
Looking back from where we are today, August 21 of 2023, we are aware that Seniors sustained a heavy blow during the pandemic, and we mourn the loss of so many. AMS did its best during that time with free vaccination clinics on campus for employees, their families and the community as well as many other efforts to protect employees. But as much as we cared, lives were lost. They will always be appreciated.
As for today, how can we show our gratitude for the wisdom of the elders and regard for them whether in our families, communities or workplace? Give them your time in conversation and listen. Ask if there is anything they need help with and when they tell you, do your best.
Throughout our history, Seniors have achieved much for our families, our communities, and our country. That gives us ample reason this year to reserve August 21 as a time to give a little extra thought and care to the Seniors near us who mean so much to us.