On the first of October, the International Day of Older Persons is celebrated around the world. On this day, we remind ourselves that even a small act of care can bring warmth and comfort to an elderly person. Loneliness does not disappear on its own – but each of us can help ease it.

The “How Are You Today?” campaign for the International Day of Older Persons focuses mainly on those who have withdrawn from active community life or rarely leave their homes. The initiative encourages everyone to call or visit an elderly person and share a little of their time to help reduce loneliness.

Experts at Südamekodud emphasize that it often doesn’t take much effort to make an elderly person’s day brighter. Small and simple gestures can mean more than we realize.

1. Call an elderly acquaintance. Ask: “How are you today?” – and most importantly, listen to the answer.
2. Pay a visit. Even a short one can make the day brighter.
3. Bring a newspaper, magazine, or book. Something new to read also brings something new to talk about.
4. Go for a walk together. Fresh air and company are the best remedy for loneliness.
5. Bring a small gift. An apple from your garden, some chocolate, or a flower – the gesture matters more than the gift.
6. Help with daily tasks. Take out the trash, buy milk, or set up a phone – small things bring reassurance.
7. Share memories. Look at old photos or recall moments together – every story is valuable.
8. Invite them to join in. Take them to a concert, a café, or even just for a walk at the market.
9. Recognize and praise. Tell them their experiences and life story are valuable to you.
10. Just be there. Sometimes the greatest gift is quiet togetherness.

The International Day of Older Persons has been celebrated annually on October 1 since 1990, initiated by the UN. The day encourages us to value the experiences and contributions of older people and raise awareness of issues important to them – their wellbeing, health, and the challenges of ageing.

The “How Are You Today?” campaign was launched in 2024 by the NGOs Voluntary Companions and Golden League, the example movement White Balloon, AS Südamekodud, and Lidl Estonia, with support from Postimees. The campaign’s implementation is supported by the Ministry of Social Affairs.