Rejoicing in our seniors

DANCING and happiness were evident as Palmerston North's older generation relished in the celebrations. PHOTO: ALECIA ROUSSEAU

The city's older residents were honoured and thanked for their contribution to the region last week at a ceremony for International Day Of The Older Person.

The Senior Citizens Hall came alive with laughter and music as dozens of retirees filled the hall to celebrate their special day. The afternoon included a chance to mingle with others, and allowed Age Concern and the Palmerston North City Council to award those who deserved recognition.

This is the second year the awards, created by councillors Lew Findlay and Bruno Petrenas, have been held.

Age Concern's Robyn Baker said the day meant those who often experienced loneliness or isolation had a chance to escape those feelings. "This event gives people a chance to reconnect ... it's a shared community. It's simply for them to come along and have a good time and for us to say 'thank you'."

Palmerston North mayor Grant Smith said he placed great value on Palmerston North's senior citizens. He said the afternoon was a chance to show appreciation for the generous contributions they continue to make. "It's a really good thing ... we are doing these awards annually. It's also a good chance to connect with those 60 and over."

Mr Smith said the room was full of people who could impart a lot of wisdom -- something that only came with age and experience.

"These days a 70th is like a 50th, they still have a lot to contribute. My dad worked all his life ... now he's 84 and still going strong. He remains connected through his contacts with Probus and the RSA."

The Older Woman of the Year was awarded to Jan Cook, who was recognised for her efforts volunteering, running a van and opening her home one night a week to have an evening meal with someone on their own.

"This is a real surprise," she said. "And, well, I only do what I love doing."

Arron Schroder scooped Older Man of the Year, having volunteered for several organisations. He also works with Alzheimers Manawatu and WanderSearch which uses frequency-based radio systems to track people who have wandered off.

The Organisation of the Year was awarded to SuperGrans for their work teaching people lifeskills, while Older Person of the Year was won by Gaye Trow. Mrs Trow volunteers with the blind foundation, plays in a brass band and has been on the executive of the RSA.