Hooray for Seniors!

The summer picnic at Oakwood. 7/17/2025 dwm

President Ronald Reagan signed a declaration on this day in 1988 making August 21 National Senior Citizens Day.

 

"Throughout our history, older people have achieved much for our families, our communities, and our country. That remains true today, and gives us ample reason this year to reserve a special day in honor of the senior citizens who mean so much to our land. For all they have achieved throughout life, for all they continue to accomplish, we owe older citizens our thanks and a heartfelt salute."  

 

My perspective is different than it was 37 years ago for a couple reasons. 

 

The first reason is I'm older, in fact, some might say I am a senior citizen myself.

 

Second, working in a retirement community for 13 years has given me the privilege of working with older adults. Not only have they lived incredible lives, most continue to be active and engaged in living.

 

As everyone ages, we like moving the finish line, with phrases like, "60 is the new 40." 

Maybe it is and maybe it's not but I don't feel my best days are behind me, and the residents I know at Oakwood feel the same way. 

 

That's worth saluting.