Older Canberrans and their contribution to our community are bring celebrated this September as ACT Seniors Month returns with a diverse program of events and activities across the Territory.
Supported by the ACT Government and delivered by the Council on the Ageing ACT (COTA ACT), Seniors Month is an opportunity for older Canberrans to connect with their communities, learn new skills, access support services and participate in activities that promote healthy and active ageing.
Minister for Women, Seniors and Veterans, Caitlin Tough said Seniors Month is an opportunity to recognise the enormous contribution older Canberrans make to the life of our city.
“Older Canberrans are at the heart of our community. They volunteer, care for family and friends, share their knowledge and experience, and continue to make significant social, cultural and economic contributions to Canberra.
“Seniors Month is about celebrating those contributions while creating opportunities for people stay connected, active and engaged in the community. When older people feel connected, valued and supported, our entire community benefits.”
The ACT Government is also encouraging older Canberrans to have their say on what helps people age well in Canberra through the Ministerial Advisory Council on Ageing (MACA) Seniors Month Community Survey.
The survey seeks feedback on the experiences of older Canberrans to better understand the factors that support people to age well in Canberra and what more can be done to help keep them connected, active and engaged throughout their lives.
Minister Tough said the survey would help inform future priorities and strengthen Canberra’s position as an age-friendly city.
“We want to hear directly from older Canberran about what matters most to them and what more can be done to support people to live connect, active and fulfilling lives as they age.
The survey takes 5 to 10 minutes to complete. Responses are confidential and will be used to inform MACA’s future priorities and advocacy for positive ageing in the ACT.
A highlight of the month will be the ACT Seniors and Better Ageing Expo, the Positive Ageing Awards and the Chief Minister’s Concert, all proudly supported by the ACT Government through funding provided to COTA ACT.
Held at the Old Bus Depot building in Kingston on September 23 and 24, the Expo will feature more than 150 exhibitors providing information on products, services and opportunities which help older Canberrans remain active, connected and independent.
The Positive Ageing Awards will be presented during the Expo on 23 September, recognising the organisations, services and businesses which make a positive contribution to the lives of older Canberrans. On 24 September, the Band of the Royal Military College, Duntroon will perform at the Chief Minister’s Concert.
Quotes attributable to Chair of the Ministerial Advisory Council on Ageing Cathy Hope:
“Older Canberrans make an enormous contribution to our community through their work, volunteering, caregiving and life experience.
“The MACA Seniors Month Community Survey gives people the opportunity to share their insights and have a say on issues that matter to them.
Canberrans can complete the survey at: https://uoc.syd1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_02N6xB7WS67KnmS
COTA ACT’s calendar of Seniors Month events can be accessed via this link ACT Seniors Month – COTA ACT
