By the time you’re eighty years old you’ve learned everything. You only have to remember it.” George Burns

National Senior Citizens Day was created to give back to the seniors that have impacted our lives and those who have already given so much. Changing demographics due to improved healthcare have enabled our older citizens to contribute more years of productivity than ever before. This has allowed many to seek second careers and serve as role models for the younger generations. For all that they have done, we owe our seniors our thanks and gratitude. Back in 1988 former President Ronald Reagan was honoring seniors when he signed Proclamation 5847.

“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,” Reagan proclaimed. “For all they have achieved throughout life and for all they continue to accomplish, we owe older citizens our thanks and a heartfelt salute. 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.”