World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly

World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly

The World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly is a day dedicated to honoring and recognizing the contributions of grandparents and the elderly in society. The idea for the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly was proposed by Pope Francis in January 2021. The Pope stated that the day was necessary to acknowledge the significant role that grandparents and the elderly played in families and society, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In Australia, the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly was first celebrated in 2021. The day was supported by various organizations, churches, and community groups. The aim of the day was to strengthen intergenerational ties, raise awareness about the needs of the elderly, and promote their welfare.

The day was celebrated with prayer services, community events, and activities that focused on the contributions of grandparents and the elderly. The Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney, for instance, organized a pilgrimage to St. Mary's Cathedral, which was followed by a prayer service and a blessing for the elderly. World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly is observed on July 23rd.

Facts about World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly

• The theme of the first World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly was I am with you always, symbolizing God's constant presence in our lives, regardless of our age.
• The day was designated to coincide with the liturgical memorial of Saint Joachim and Saint Anne, the grandparents of Jesus.
• Elders are more prone to chronic health conditions such as heart disease, arthritis, and diabetes. However, regular physical activity, a healthy diet, and regular medical check-ups can mitigate these risks.
• Around one-third of senior Australians were born outside of Australia, with the United Kingdom, Italy, Greece, and China being the most common countries of origin.
• Australia has a comprehensive pension system, known as the 'Age Pension,' which provides a safety net for elderly individuals who do not have adequate income from other sources or retirement savings.

In the News and Trending in Australia for World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Encourage grandparents to share their stories, wisdom, and life experiences with younger generations. This promotes intergenerational bonding and learning.
• Pack a picnic and take your grandparents for a relaxing day out in one of Australia's beautiful parks, such as the Royal Botanic Gardens in Melbourne or the Adelaide Botanic Garden.