Elderly Filipino Week is commemorated every October 1 to 7 by Proclamation No. 470, issued by then-President Fidel Ramos on September 26, 1994. The proclamation establishes the Executive Department’s obligation, via the Department of Social Welfare and Development, to implement a social welfare program supporting the well-being of the elderly. It is believed that older Filipinos are essential members of society who need help and protection in order to live productive and happy lives. The yearly celebration of the Elderly Filipino Week emphasizes the contributions of senior citizens in contributing to the development of the country.
History of Elderly Filipino Week
The first week of October has been designated as Elderly Filipino Week. The geriatric population in the Philippines has been rapidly expanding during the last decade. According to the most recent Philippine Statistics Authority figures, there were 12,336,355 Filipinos aged 60 and above as of May 2020.
According to the 2020 Census of Population and Housing, the total number of senior persons was 11.31% of the expected total population of 109,035,343.) The ramifications for Philippine development, particularly in terms of social welfare, are enormous. An important consideration in this regard is the elderly’s quality of life. In addition to meeting their basic survival of nutrition and health, an enabling environment should be fostered through support services and programs for senior citizens to continue to go on with their self-development and contribute to the community and national development.
Filipinos put high cultural importance on respect for aging and the elderly. Young people are expected to respect the elderly as well as senior members of their families. Older individuals should be addressed politely, especially with suitable titles of respect.
Elderly Filipino Week timeline
President Fidel Ramos is elected as the 12th President of the Philippines.
President Ramos designates the first week of October as Elderly Filipino Week.
Filipinos mark two decades of caring for their elderly using a designated social welfare program.
In the 2020 Census of Population and Housing, senior citizens are found to account for 11.31% of the population.
Elderly Filipino Week FAQs
What causes aging?
Some theories say aging occurs because cells have a predefined lifespan. Other hypotheses state that aging occurs as a result of genetic, evolutionary, or biochemical processes.
What does the World Health Organization say about aging?
It says that aging happens due to molecular and cellular damage that happens in the body over time.
What do the elderly need most?
Apart from the usual basic human needs, they need that sense of community, they need some form of physical activity, respect and care.
How to Observe Elderly Filipino Week
Visit the elderly relatives
Observe this important event by paying a visit to your elderly relatives at their homes. This is bound to put a smile on their faces.
Volunteer at homes for the elderly
You can mark Elderly Filipino Week by volunteering services at the homes for the elderly in your region. There is always room needed for volunteers in these homes and you will be warmly welcomed.
Post on social media
Celebrate the elderly by sharing stories on social media with the hashtag #ElderlyFilipinoWeek. Be sure to include some photos that capture the moment.
5 Facts About Aging
The W.H.O definition
According to the World Health Organization (W.H.O) an elderly person is anyone who is 65 years and older.
The global population is progressively aging
Between 2015 and 2050, the number of people aged 60 plus will increase to about two billion.
Ageism is as common as racism
Ageism can show up as having a biased attitude or discrimination against the aged.
There are places that revere their elderly
In Africa, parts of Asia, and among the Native Americans, the elderly are highly respected and they hold a sacred place in society.
Sickness is not part of aging
Different things can affect older people’s wellness, but genetics is only a small part of the picture.
Why Elderly Filipino Week is Important
They have informative tales
We could listen to older patrons tell tales about their lives without ever getting bored. The elderly are authentic and honest and it is a joy spending time with them.
The elderly have wisdom from experience
They have knowledge of life and values since they have lived through so much more. We can learn so much from the wisdom they have.
They love without conditions
They adore you wholeheartedly because of their wonderful souls. It is refreshing spending time with such loving people.
Elderly Filipino Week dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | October 1 | Tuesday |
| 2025 | October 1 | Wednesday |
| 2026 | October 1 | Thursday |
| 2027 | October 1 | Friday |
| 2028 | October 1 | Sunday |
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