Letter to an Elder Day
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February 26
Letter to an Elder Day
Show your appreciation to an elder in your life on Letter to an Elder Day - send them a letter full of love and gratitude!
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Introduction
Show your appreciation and gratitude to the elders in your life on February 26th with Letter to an Elder Day! This day was created by the National Council on Aging as a way to honor older generations who have made an impact on our lives. Writing letters is a wonderful way to express your love and admiration for them, as well as offer words of encouragement and support. It's also a great opportunity to share stories and cherish memories that you may not have been able to experience together. So start writing those heartfelt messages today – it'll be sure to make their day!
Letter to an Elder Day Timeline
1960
National Council on Aging Formed
The National Council on Aging (NCOA) was established to improve the lives of older adults across the U.S.
1990
Call to Appreciate Elders
NCOA encourages programs to increase respect for the elderly and acknowledge their contributions to society.
2008
Growing Emphasis on Communication
More awareness around the importance of communication with older adults; idea of a dedicated day is discussed by NCOA.
2016
National Day of Recognition Created
NCOA officially forms Letter to an Elder Day, set for February 26 each year, to honor and appreciate older adults.
2020
Increased Participation
Rise in awareness and acknowledgement of Letter to an Elder Day, with an increase in letters written across the U.S.
How to Celebrate Letter to an Elder Day
1
Write a letter
Take the time to write a letter to an elder in your life. Let them know how much you appreciate them and what they've done for you.
2
Send a card
Send a card to an elder that you know and let them know that you're thinking of them. It's a simple gesture, but it will be appreciated.
3
Give a gift
Buy an elder in your life a special gift that they will cherish. It doesn't have to be anything expensive, just something that will make them feel special.
4
Make a phone call
Give an elder in your life a call and take the time to catch up with them. Have a conversation and show that you care.
5
Visit in person
Make plans to visit an elder in your life. Take some time out of your day to go see them and show appreciation for their presence in your life.
Why Letter to an Elder Day is Important
A
Letter to an Elder Day is a way to recognize and appreciate their wisdom
Our elders are often our wisest advisors, with generations of experience and knowledge. Writing them a letter on Letter to an Elder Day is a great way to honor this wisdom and let them know how appreciated they are.
B
Letters are a great way to keep in touch
In this age of digital communication, writing letters is becoming less common. But writing a letter on Letter to an Elder Day shows that you still value your relationship enough to take the time and put in the effort to send something meaningful.
C
Letters can provide comfort
For many seniors, feeling isolated and alone can be a struggle. Writing a letter on Letter to an Elder Day – even if you don’t live near them – can help remind them that someone cares about them and wants them to feel connected. This can be especially important for those entering their golden years.
Letter to an Elder Day FAQs
When is Letter to an Elder Day?
Letter to an Elder Day is celebrated each year on February 26th, and in 2025, it will fall on a Wednesday.
Letter to an Elder Day Dates
Year
Date
Day
2023
Feb 26
Sunday
2024
Feb 26
Monday
2025
Feb 26
Wednesday
2026
Feb 26
Thursday
2027
Feb 26
Friday