October 1st is National Older People’s Day, writes Lorraine Tapper
In the olden days, well 30 or so years ago, people over 50 were seen as being past their sell by date. All of that changed when the United Nations voted to establish the International Day of Older People which is observed every year on 1st October.
Recently, in recognition of this day several local authorities hold an annual Ageing Well Festival. In Newham it is a free one-day event which will be on Saturday, 5th October at Forest Gate Community School, Forest Lane, E7 9BB.
To create its own ageing well strategy Newham Council spoke to more than 1,500 residents in 2021 and 2022 and the input from people gave fresh insights to existing services and highlighted priority areas that needed improvement.
Newham has worked with the NHS and voluntary and local community sector organisations to develop the strategy for older people in the Borough.
The priorities identified are: improving information and communication; advice on home life; support with finance, employment, volunteering, and retirement issues; and supporting better community and neighbourhood connections.
Details of each priority are on the Newham Council website, which explains how the strategy will improve the health and wellbeing of residents over 50 while reducing health inequalities.
In a Council statement Councillor Neil Wilson, the Borough Cabinet Member for Health and Adult Social Care, said: “I am pleased the Ageing Well Festival will be taking place for the third year in a row. Having attended the last two events, I can safely say it truly is a celebration of our residents aged 50+. It’s fun, joyful and informative…”
The event takes place between 10 – 4pm.There are a range of activities, refreshments, food provided and even music to keep visitors relaxed on the day.
For more information email ageingwell@newham.gov.uk or go to www.newham.gov.uk/health-adult-social-care/ageing-well-newham/8
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