Celebrations are about to commence for International Day of Older Persons (IDOP) on 1 October, and throughout the month, with a jam-packed programme for Albert-Eden locals.
Local board chair Margi Watson says the community wouldn’t have its rich history or be where it is today without the contribution of its elderly.
“Everyone has an older person in their life to celebrate. And there are about one in 10 of those living in Albert-Eden who are 65 years and over and are well-deserved of being included and looked after,” she says.
As part of Albert-Eden Local Board’s inclusion and diversity programme, a needs assessment identified the necessity to increase community awareness of services and opportunities for people with varied abilities, intergenerational opportunities and intercultural learning.
IDOP is a United Nations initiative that has been shining a spotlight on older people around the world for 33 years.
Albert-Eden’s IDOP programme, now in its second year, has developed to celebrate, connect and engage more of the area’s most senior members. The aim is to continue to support senior communities to participate in activities and events that matter to them. Programme highlights include:
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Goldfit classes and morning tea
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Lunch gathering – celebrating diversity with guest speakers and entertainment
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Community Tai Chi
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Creative Aging Event
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Spring Gala
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Chair Yoga and SpinPoi
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Poetry for Pensioners
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Ikebana – a hands-on flower arrangement workshop
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Devonshire Tea & Bingo, concert by Music in Eden
Activities and events are being promoted by organisations and groups connected to older people, shared throughout community networks and by word-of-mouth.
The IDOP programme is funded by the local board and delivered through a collaboration between council and various delivery partners.
For everything you need to know about the Albert-Eden International Day of Older Persons programme read more here.
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