National Senior Citizens Day is an observance and not a public holiday in the US. Some people celebrate Senior Citizens Day on August 14 as it was the day past US president Franklin Roosevelt signed the Social Security Act in 1935. However, in 1988, then President Ronald Reagan, declared the third Sunday of August to be National Senior Citizens Day. This year the observance is August 17th.
This observance was established in honor of senior citizens in the US who made positive contributions in their communities. The day was also created to bring awareness of social, health, and economic issues that affect senior citizens.
Various events and activities are organized on Senior Citizens Day to raise awareness of supporting older people and recognizing their achievements. Some people raise awareness through social media and news stories, while others organize special community gatherings inviting senior citizens, their families, friends and volunteers. Some businesses may give special discounts or deals to senior citizens on or around the third Sunday of August.