Seniors Week extends from June 7th to June 13th. This week is set aside to honour our senior community members and find opportunities to treat them and pay homage to their input and sacrifices. Seniors’ Week has been celebrated since 1986 to celebrate and recognize seniors throughout the province. Seniors’ Week is a great opportunity to honour and recognize all that seniors have contributed to making our families, communities, and our province stronger.

Karla Thurber, General Manager of the Hillside Lodge said: “Seniors are like an incredible novel, one that can only be truly enjoyed by taking the time to sit quietly and find the story of character, tenacity and perspective. /p>

“A true blessing; and sometimes overlooked asset in this crazy world.
“When I was growing up my Grandfather Doug (Papa T) told me the most interesting stories of the ocean, of war times, of large families and community. I cannot imagine my life without the gift of time that was shared at a young age. I sure miss him but will forever remember.
“Seniors please share your stories and enjoy your week!”

So readers, using the words of the Government of Alberta, let us celebrate and support Alberta seniors. Let’s recognize special days for seniors safely and responsibly. Seniors are a vital part of our communities. As parents and grandparents, mentors and friends, employees, and employers, they make a difference in our lives. It is important that we continue to recognize, celebrate, and support seniors especially throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

“The Government of Alberta recognizes a number of special days dedicated to seniors throughout the year. This tip sheet provides suggestions on how Albertans can continue to celebrate, support, and keep seniors safe while respecting the current public health measures.”
• Make an audio or video call, email or send letters to check in.
• Host a family dinner online.
• Host a virtual games night with family and friends.
• Write letters and send cards, drawings, or photos to seniors in local continuing care facilities.
• Offer assistance. This is a great time to support the emotional, mental, and physical well-being of older adults and to spread good cheer throughout your community.
• Offer to assist with grocery and prescription purchases – online or delivery.
• Drop off gift baskets with pre-packaged essentials at seniors’ homes.
• Volunteer with organizations that support seniors, like a telephone check-in program.
• Recognize outstanding supports for seniors by nominating an individual, business or non-profit organization that has served seniors in your community for a Minister’s Seniors Service Award at www.alberta.ca/MSSA
• Share your stories.
• Virtually interview seniors and capture their stories and history.
• Host a virtual music concert.
• Host an online poetry reading.
• Host a podcast with guest speakers.
• Invite older adults you know to participate in online educational, activity or cooking classes.
• Conduct a “drive-by” parade – make signs, honk your horns and wave.
• Have a virtual story-telling evening.

Two Hills Regional Chronicle takes this opportunity to salute all seniors. Thank you for the role you have played to our lives easier, the fights you fought to make our lives more peaceful, the trials you endured to make our lives more enjoyable and the prayers you prayed to make our lives more blessed!!!