Celebrating Letter to an Elder Day is a great opportunity to honor those who have come before us.
It encourages all of us to reflect on the power, wisdom and impact of our elders in our lives. On Letter to an Elder Day, we can take a moment to connect with an elder and express our appreciation for all they have done and taught us. Writing letters is a powerful way to recognize their sacrifices, values and cherished memories.
Letter to an Elder Day can also be an opportunity for people of all ages to learn from one another. Everyone has a unique story and perspective which can help bridge generations and create greater understanding. Celebrating Letter to an Elder Day is one way that we can show our gratitude, deepen relationships, and foster intergenerational community connections.
HISTORY OF LETTER TO AN ELDER DAY
Jacob Cramer had an unbreakable bond with his grandpa, however it was tragically cut short. In honor of him he began volunteering in a local senior living community and gained the nickname “Bingo Boy” due to his lively approach when hosting bingo games there – something any regular will tell you! While aiding elderly people at this center Jacob noticed that many suffered from loneliness as hardly anyone ever visited or sent messages their way.
So he decided to make use of technology to bring some light into seniors’ lives by writing letters full of love for them; hoping these would brighten up each day and remind our elders how much they are still loved. Jacob’s letter-writing journey began when he found grace and love in his relationships with the senior citizens of his community. Fueled by this warmth, Jacob decided to take it beyond local boundaries and make a global impact – giving birth from Bingo Boy To Letter Boy.
This nonprofit organization rallies people from around the world in order to spread comfort, hope, joy and companionship through letters which are sent directly into homes across all corners of society – young or old alike! Since 2013 some 50K+ individuals have put pen onto paper for this very special cause; recently expanding their efforts during COVID-19 pandemic times by collecting video messages as well as conducting public awareness campaigns that engage class rooms & businesses alike.
FIVE THINGS ELDERLY PEOPLE LOVE TO HEAR
- Reminiscence: Share fond memories or stories from the past. Elderly individuals often appreciate hearing about shared experiences and reliving cherished moments.
- Expressions of Love: Express your love and appreciation. Simple, heartfelt words can bring immense joy and comfort to elderly recipients.
- Gratitude for Wisdom: Acknowledge the wisdom they’ve gained over the years. Show appreciation for the valuable lessons and insights they have shared with you.
- Updates on Family: Provide updates on family members and their achievements. Elderly individuals often take great joy in hearing about the well-being and accomplishments of their loved ones.
- Encouragement and Affirmations: Offer words of encouragement and positive affirmations. Let them know how much their presence and guidance mean to you.
- Humor and Light-heartedness: Include some humor or light-hearted anecdotes. Laughter is timeless and can brighten their day.
- Acknowledgment of Strength: Recognize their resilience and strength. Many elderly individuals have overcome challenges, and acknowledging their fortitude can be uplifting.
- Shared Interests: Discuss shared hobbies or interests. Whether it’s a shared love for gardening, music, or literature, connecting over common interests fosters a sense of connection.
- Gratitude for Time Together: Express gratitude for the time spent together. Let them know that the moments you’ve shared have left a lasting impact on your life.
- Words of Comfort and Reassurance: Offer words of comfort and reassurance. Sometimes, the elderly may have concerns, and providing a sense of security through your words can be soothing.
HOW TO CELEBRATE LETTER TO AN ELDER DAY
- Read about the Love For Our Elders organization. Nominate an elder!
- Write a letter to an elder.
- Spread the word on social media by using the hashtag #lettertoanelderday
- Purchase a supply of cards to have on hand for more letters to elders (cards available in all designs).
- Get some new stationery to write a good old-fashioned letter to an elder.
- If you love the article image, purchase it on these fun products on Zazzle!
- Download the 38 Hertz Celebration Book with 365 days of celebrations.
Note: If the above links do not direct you to the appropriate referral on the first try, return to the article and try again.
Do you have any ideas about how to celebrate this day? Please share them!
