International Day of Senior Citizens in Leichlingen

Flowers, children’s pictures and moving conversations on the market square

On the occasion of the International Day of Senior Citizens on October 1, 2025, Leichlingen Hilft e.V. was represented with a special campaign directly opposite the market square. In bright sunshine, numerous colourful children’s pictures were hung up and almost 100 flowers were distributed to senior citizens.

Many thanks go to Blumen Grabe, who donated some of the flowers and thus actively supported the campaign. 🌸💐

Children paint for seniors

The pictures presented during the campaign were taken by the primary school pupils of KGS Kirchstraße, the tutoring children of Leichlingen Hilft and other children from our city. 🎨
In the coming days, these loving works of art will once again be given away personally to senior citizens – as a sign of appreciation and solidarity between the generations.

Conversations full of memories and hopes for the future

The many conversations that ensued were particularly valuable. Many senior citizens were happy about the attention and emphasized how important it is not to be seen only as a burden.

Some voices:

• “The flowers are a wonderful sign – and the children’s pictures touched me deeply.”
• “So much heart in the pictures – that’s better than any gift.”
• “It’s nice that young people are thinking of us – that gives hope.”
• “Such a small gesture makes the whole day bright.”

In the encounters, however, there was not only laughter – the past and current were also discussed. Senior citizens talked about their experiences during the Second World War, about reconstruction, but also about today’s fears – such as loneliness or insecurity. At the same time, many spoke of their hopes for a peaceful and solidary future.

Young and dynamic – our senior citizens

It was also surprising how young and dynamic many senior citizens in Leichlingen seem. In a conversation, it turned out that one of the interviewees was already 87 years old – although she was easily estimated to be 20 years younger.

Result

The campaign has made it clear:
Our senior citizens are a valuable part of our city. Their experiences, their stories and their warmth enrich our coexistence.

“Our campaign shows that older people belong in the middle of our society. They deserve attention, respect and gratitude,” said Leichlingen Hilft e.V.