Along with other recent initiatives to recognize Canada’s seniors, the federal government has designated October 1st as National Seniors Day.

I understand if for some seniors that bit of news brings the slightly cynical question: So what? Many of the seniors who call my constituency office are struggling with life. Some are having difficulty keeping their fridges stocked. Others are having issues with their pensions. Many are battling medical issues. A national day of recognition? It’s nice, but ...

This government initiative is indeed different from our other efforts to improve the lives of Canada’s seniors—measures like the New Horizons for Seniors Program—which has funded over 8,500 senior-inspired or senior-led projects that are now enhancing communities across Canada. Or the recent Guaranteed Income Supplement (GIS) increase for low-income seniors—the largest in a quarter century—which has put a little more income into the pockets of more than 680,000 Canadian seniors.

National Seniors Day is not about money—it’s about something far less concrete, but vitally important. The coinage of this government initiative is several-fold: Gratitude. Respect. Tribute. Recognition.

A huge portion of the many blessings we enjoy daily in this country have come through the dedication, industry, faith, and inspiration of our elders—people from every walk of life who have gone before as well as those who are still active—in caring for, mentoring and leading others. They have built, and are still supporting, our country.

The government recognizes a vital truth: Money is nice—and necessary for survival—but nothing satisfies like the knowledge that one’s contributions to others around them have been valued. On Canada’s first National Seniors Day, I encourage you to do something to celebrate  the seniors who have influenced you. Let them know they matter; that you’re grateful—and put a little shine on it—even if you’re a senior yourself.

I plan to do the same.
           

For ideas and resources to help you celebrate Canada’s first National Seniors Day, and to find information on federal government programs and services for seniors, please visit:  www.seniors.gc.ca.

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The audio version of Garry's Sept. 26, 2011 op-ed column can be heard by clicking here