Positive Ageing events to return

THE City of Greater Geelong’s Positive Ageing Program is back this year from October 1, and will provide activities to promote and support healthy ageing for people aged 55 and above.

As part of the city’s commitment to encourage positive ageing in the community, the city provides grants to community groups to deliver events and activities that promote positive ageing and encourage people to get active and involved.

The program has more than 40 activities and events for people aged 55 and older running from October to March.

Printed copies will be available for collection at Geelong Regional Libraries branches.

The Positive Ageing Program includes a variety of community hosted activities and experiences such as workshops, dances, concerts, sporting activities and tours that celebrate the ageing community.

Activities are opportunities to:

• Increase physical activity
• Promote mental health and wellbeing
• Increase social connection
• Recognise and celebrate achievements
• Support positive ageing, and
• Engage in intergenerational activities.

Geelong mayor Trent Sullivan said the program would help the city support positive ageing and intergenerational activity, as well as celebrating the achievements of local heroes.

“Around a third of the Greater Geelong population is aged 55 years and over, with the number expected to increase over the coming years, so it’s important that we encourage decisions that support the health and wellbeing of people as they age.

“With October being Seniors Month and the Victorian Seniors Festival, this is a great time to kick-off our calendar of events to assist residents in staying connected and remaining resilient.”

“It’s great to see so many activities available for our ageing community to develop networks, explore new interests and participate in wellbeing opportunities.”

Since 2022, the Positive Ageing Program has been extended from October to February to align with the city’s Positive Ageing Strategy Action Plan.

Deputy mayor Anthony Aitken said the program aligns with the City’s Positive Ageing Strategy to ensure our ageing community is respected, connected and thriving.

“With October being Senior’s Month and the Victorian Seniors Festival, this is a great time to kick-off our calendar of events to assist residents in staying connected and remaining resilient.

“By respecting and celebrating the diversity of older people in our community, it benefits not only our senior citizens but also the wellbeing of the broader community.”

In last year’s program, 39 events were held between October 2023 and March 2024.

For more information on the Positive Ageing Program, head to geelongaustralia.com.au/apa