On Aug. 21, we pause to celebrate National Senior Citizens Day, a holiday first proclaimed by President Ronald Reagan in 1988. In his words, seniors have achieved much “for our families, our communities, and our country” and deserve “a heartfelt salute.” More than three decades later, those words ring just as true.
Senior citizens are not only the foundation of our past but also an active, vital force in our present. They continue to serve in the workforce, volunteer in their communities, and act as mentors for younger generations. Improved healthcare and longer life expectancies have created opportunities for seniors to begin second careers, pursue new passions, and remain engaged in ways that once seemed out of reach.
The 2025 theme, “Empowering Elderly Voices for an Inclusive Future,” reminds us that honoring older adults goes beyond expressions of gratitude. It is about ensuring that seniors are heard, valued, and included in shaping policies and communities that affect them. Their experiences and perspectives carry wisdom that can guide us through complex social, economic, and cultural challenges.
The statistics underscore their importance. By 2035, the U.S. Census Bureau projects that people aged 65 and older will outnumber those under 18 for the first time in history. That shift will make it even more critical to design communities where seniors can thrive—places that encourage participation, independence, dignity, and respect.
National Senior Citizens Day is also a reminder of the simple things we can do: visit a retirement home, volunteer, or simply call an older relative or neighbor to say thank you. For those who are seniors themselves, the day may also bring discounts at restaurants or shops—but the true value is in recognition, not promotions.
As Reagan himself demonstrated—serving as president well into his 70s and living to age 93—growing older does not mean fading away. It means bringing with you the strength of experience, resilience, and perspective that can enrich generations to come.
Today, let us not only salute our senior citizens but also recommit ourselves to creating an inclusive society where age is celebrated, not sidelined. Our future is brighter when it includes the voices and contributions of those who have already given us so much.