Seniors across the Cayman Islands are gearing up to observe Older Persons Month in October. This year’s focus will be Older Persons in Economically Challenging Times.
Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Director Deanna Look Loy explained that the theme was selected to draw attention to the importance of older persons’ care, particularly during the current economic difficulties.
“Older persons face similar challenges to the rest of society. However, their situation is exacerbated because some cannot care for themselves either financially or physically and must rely on others to look after their affairs.
“We hope to guide seniors in better-managing their resources, but also to reinforce the message that the community can make a positive difference in the lives of older citizens,” Mrs. Look Loy said.
Minister of Community Affairs, Gender and Housing the Hon. Mike Adam, MBE, JP agreed: “As a country and community, we must redouble our efforts to care for, protect and empower our seniors, especially in the face of the global economic situation.
“We must help to guide them; assist in providing their material needs where possible; keep them engaged as active members of the family and community, and last but not least, learn from their wisdom,” the Minister said.
Detailing the month’s activities, Older Persons Month Committee Chairperson Zemrie Thompson said that the extended celebration is intended to show appreciation to seniors. It will launch with the much-anticipated Governor’s Tea Party at Government House on Friday, 1 October.
A seniors’ weekend retreat is scheduled for 7 to 10 October at the Ramada Grand Caymanian Resort, and a Wellness Fair at the Seafarers Association is slated for Wednesday, 20 October from 10:00a.m to 1:00p.m.. The ultimate event – a Seniors’ Bash, again at the Red Bay Seafarers Association, will take place on Friday, 29 October between 7:00 and 10:00p.m.
Each district will also be staging community luncheons throughout the month. First up will be West Bay’s, on Thursday, 7 October at the Ramada Grand Caymanian Resort. It is a by invitation only event.
The North Side luncheon will take place at the district’s civic centre, 10:00a.m. to 1:00p.m on Tuesday, 12 October, while in Bodden Town, Coewood Beach has also been selected to host the 4:00- 7:00p.m., Saturday,23 October dinner. The venue for the Monday, 18 October George Town lunch is the Walker’s Road Family Life Centre, between 10:00a.m. and 1:00p.m.
East End’s celebratory meal will also take place at the civic centre, on Tuesday, 19 October between 10:00a.m. and 1:00p.m. On Cayman Brac, a senior’s social celebration and the Launch of the Cayman Brac Seniors Social Club will be hosted on Thursday, 23 October at 7:00p.m. in the Aston Rutty Centre.
