Posted under Uncategorized on September 13th, 2013 by Editorial Team / No Comments

UK Older People’s Day will take place on 1 October 1^st 2013, to coincide with the UN International Day of Older Persons. The aim of the day is to celebrate the achievements and contributions that older people make to society and to the economy. The initiative encourages individuals and organizations to work together in organizing events and gatherings all over the country that enhance community spirit for people of all ages.

Last year it is estimated that over a million people took part in over 6,000 events across the UK. Events varied from smaller local activities to month-long festivals offering different opportunities to meet new people, share skills and stay healthy and active.

This year’s campaign will focus on challenging negative attitudes and outdated stereotypes surrounding the elderly, with events nationwide ensuring that people understand some of the difficulties that older people face and what can be done to help them. Workshops are also available for carers of people with Alzheimer’s disease, allowing people to share experiences and provide better care for their loved ones.

A range of events will take place around the UK to mark the day including exercise demonstrations, coffee mornings, walks and concerts. Both communities and individuals are encouraged to take part in organizing events that cater for all interests. For example, one family in Lancashire has organised a fun run called Race2Remember with the aim of raising awareness of dementia. The run has attracted participants of all ages and proceeds will go to theAlzheimer’s Society.

The British government and other supporting groups, under the “Full of Life” slogan, have made UK Older People’s Day the focus of a wide program of activity celebrating later life.

Further information can be found at www.olderpeoplesday.co.uk

Date of prep. January 2015                     RXUKPDGL00004t 

Tags: Alzheimer's Awareness, Alzheimer's Events, older people's day