On the International Day of Older Persons, which is marked each year on 1 October, HRH Crown Princess Katherine sends her message that we must never forget the older ones, and their immeasurable contribution to the world we live in.
“As years of life pass by, we are getting more and more experiences, more skills, we are revealing the secrets of life. All this knowledge that we get through the flow of time accumulates as great wisdom that only somebody who has more years and more experience than us can have. People occupied with their problems, and caught in the whirlpool of everyday activities can forget that in their family, in their nearest environment, they have a grandpa, grandma, or some other elderly person who can give them valuable advice and guidance in dealing with the issues.
Older people deserve good care and attention, and we should never forget to give them a warm smile and ask them how they are, and how they feel, which is immeasurably significant to them. They must always know that they are not forgotten, that they are loved and appreciated. Since the establishment of my Foundation, we have dedicated part of our activities to the elderly, and we will always try to help you and make life more beautiful and joyful for you.
It is so important not to forget the old people who need our love and care. Your contributions to our world, wisdom, and life experience should be a guideline for young people. I wish you to be happy for a long time, to feel the love of your children and grandchildren” stated HRH Crown Princess Katherine on this occasion.
The International Day of Older People is marked on October 1st each year, as the United Nations General Assembly proclaimed it. The holiday was observed for the first time on October 1, 1991. The holiday is celebrated by raising awareness about issues affecting the elderly, such as senescence and elder abuse. It is also a day to appreciate the contributions that older people make to society. United Nations decided that “Resilience of Older Persons in a Changing World” is the theme of this year’s marking of this day.