Queensland is enjoying its third annual Queensland Seniors Month.
From humble beginnings when it began as Old People’s Week in October of 1960, the statewide celebration has outgrown its nine-day week and become a month-long event.
Beginning on Sunday 1 October, the United Nations International Day of Older Persons, Queensland’s Seniors Month will include National Grandparents Day on Sunday 29 October.
COTA (Council on the Ageing) Queensland coordinates Seniors Month on behalf of the Queensland Government and receives funding to collaboratively plan and subsidise events and activities.
Reinforced by its theme, Social Connections, Queensland Seniors Month aims to provide opportunities for people across all generations to connect and challenge our own stereotypical views of ageing and the aged. It also provides opportunities for people to discover local programs, services and volunteering opportunities, which may assist in reducing social isolation.
COTA Queensland chair Jean McRuvie said as we age, our social connections become increasingly important. To enable this, we need communities that foster and support these connections through spaces, places, and activities.
“For some older Queenslanders, social isolation can lead to depression and other health problems. However, maintaining strong social connections can have a profound impact on our health and wellbeing,“ she said.
“These connections can come from a variety of sources including friends, family, community groups, and by taking part in Seniors Month events and activities. Through these connections people may find emotional support, a sense of belonging, reason to stay active and engaged, or a sense of purpose and meaning.”
According to the 2021 Census there are about 15,600 people aged 65 and over living in Noosa out of its population of about 56,870.
Both COTA Queensland and the State Government value the contributions older people have made and continue to make in their communities whether as volunteers or in the workforce, community leaders or carers, grandparents, or advocates, Ms McRuvie said.
For more information on Seniors Month visit qldseniorsmonth.org.au
