It's a day to celebrate our oldest residents.
It's National Senior Citizens Day.
Vernon's first seniors committee was formed in 1973, and is the focus of today's Museum and Archive's photo. The celebrated its in 2023.
According to government statistics, the senior population in B.C. continues to grow, from 17.7 per cent in 2017-18 to 19.6 per cent in 2023-24. It is expected that 21.7 per cent of people in British Columbia will be 65 and older by 2035-36.
As of July 1, 2024, there were 7,820,121 Canadians aged 65 and older. This represents almost one-fifth (18.9 per cent) of the total Canadian population. The number of senior citizens in Canada is growing, and it's projected that by 2030, seniors could represent between 21.4 per cent and 23.4 per cent of the total population.
National Senior Citizens Day 鈥� founded in the United States in 1988 by then-president Ronald Reagan 鈥� recognizes the achievements of the more mature representatives of the country.
This day provides an opportunity to show appreciation for their dedication, accomplishments, and services they give throughout their lives.
They are the ones who helped make Vernon what it is today 鈥� a growing, vibrant, historic community.
Nationadaycalendar.com writes, "As technologies advance, these are the people who've experienced each step of change. Not only have they contributed to it, but they understand first hand the benefits and the drawbacks. They know life without the advancements that exist today."
Cheers to our seniors!