Celebrating Age Events: Bringing Joy, Connection, and Community Support!
Over the past two weeks, we’ve been delighted to host six Celebrating Age events across the county, bringing together more than 150 of our wonderful tenants for days filled with fun, laughter, and a strong sense of community. These gatherings were organised in celebration of our older tenants and their invaluable contributions, aligning with International Older Persons Day on October 1st, a day dedicated to recognising the important role older people play in our communities.
These events go beyond just offering a day of entertainment; they play a crucial role in addressing the challenges many older people face, such as loneliness and isolation. For many of our tenants, especially those who live alone or may not have regular social interaction, these gatherings offer a vital opportunity to connect with others, form new friendships, and feel part of a supportive community. The importance of this cannot be overstated, as social isolation can significantly impact both mental and physical well-being.
Research has shown that feelings of loneliness are linked to a higher risk of health problems such as depression, anxiety, and even cardiovascular diseases. By organising these Celebrating Age events, we’re not only creating joyful memories but also fostering an environment where our older tenants can feel seen, heard, and cared for. The events help break down barriers of isolation, encouraging social interaction and providing a safe space for people to enjoy themselves while forming meaningful connections with others in their community.
The events also serve as a reminder that age is something to be celebrated, and that older people continue to contribute to the richness and diversity of our community. One tenant beautifully expressed this sentiment by saying, ‘You don’t know how many lives you touch. I enjoy coming as it’s my birthday in a few days, and I count it as my birthday party. It makes me feel good mixing with friends. I come to all these special afternoon teas! They are always fun. I love the food and entertainment. The staff all work so hard to give us a good time.’ These words illustrate the deep impact these events have on fostering a sense of belonging and joy.
As a result of these events, we’ve also raised £425 through raffle donations, which will go directly to support Mind Conwy, a charity that provides critical mental health services across the region. This contribution further highlights the commitment of our community to supporting mental well-being, not just for our tenants but for everyone across Conwy.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who attended these events and to all those who worked so hard to make them a success. These gatherings are a shining example of how community events can bring people together, foster stronger relationships, and make a real difference in preventing loneliness and isolation among our older population. We look forward to continuing to create these valuable moments of connection and joy for our tenants in the future.
