The United States of America started a movement in 1970 on April 22nd, known as Earth Day, to show support for the cause of protecting the environment. The UN later declared it International Mother Earth Day, with countries world over celebrating it annually.

In an age where we have a cursory celebration of international days now and then, how do we ensure caring for our planet doesn't fall into the same bracket?

As a senior living community in India, Vedaanta believes seniors living in India can bear the torch for the next generation to show how to care for the planet.

We can no longer dismiss global warming and the effects of climate change as a topic for research papers or discussions in closed conference rooms as we experience a shift in the climatic fabric, like sudden unseasonal showers, even hailstorms, extreme heat waves, and cold waves in areas known for moderate weather conditions.

As seniors with life's experience and wisdom, who better than you to lead the way and teach the younger generation about practices that will conserve energy and minimize wastage?

Here are seven impactful ways seniors can practice Earth Day.

It is a chance for the older generation to include the younger to participate and learn to carry forward the practice for a better and more compassionate world.

1. Grow greens:
One of the easiest ways for individuals to increase the green cover is to create a green space in their homes and communities. If you have a larger open space within your assisted living community, you could plant tree saplings; their green canopies years later will remember you for eternity.

2. Compost at home:
Composting at home to prepare organic, pesticide-free, and nutritious manure for your green babies is another practice that takes care of your waste disposal and contributes toward a greener environment.

3. Gift a plant:
Gifting has become a commercial affair, often the cost of the return gift exceeding that of the original. Seniors can take it up to break out of this mindless habit and become an inspiration for others to follow suit. Start the pattern of gifting a sapling and perhaps a book about gardening. We hope the trend will catch on. Imagine the positivity that you will help spread!

4. Adopt the three 'R' mantra of Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle:
Habits such as upcycling old and discarded cloth to make bags or cushion covers, segregating waste, buying preloved items such as books, and being prudent about new purchases come naturally to the senior members of our community; it is time for youth to follow their lead and adapt to these sustainable ways of living.

5. Save energy at home:
You can make your home energy efficient by switching to LEDs from CFLs. While these light bulbs cost more, LEDs consume lesser units of electricity, resulting in reduced bill amounts.

While teaching children to switch off lights when not in use, you can plan a trip to the native village to show how olden-day homes used natural sources of light and water.

6. Walk the talk:
You can double up your walking routine with visits to the neighborhood stores. We suggest clubbing as many outdoor errands as possible to fit into fewer outings or using public transport to minimize the usage of fuel and vehicle traffic on roads. Carrying your water bottle doors is an excellent solution to avoid buying packaged water. Plus, it keeps you hydrated too!

7. Mindful awareness:
Nature gives us many bounties we should be grateful for. You could team up with peers and go on Nature walks whenever possible. Assisted living communities like ours love organizing trips and outings.

In the age of gadgets and digital addiction, take this opportunity to introduce the magnificent facets of Nature to the younger generation.

You could play a game of trivia with your grandchildren, ask them to identify trees and flowers in your neighborhood, and enjoy sunrises and sunsets together during holidays. Kids learn to appreciate Nature when adults take time off from busy schedules and do the same.