Old folks get their own international day

Older people, like Veta
Ebanks of West Bay, have
built the families and
foundation for the Cayman
Islands.

Friday,  September 30, 2005

Saturday 1 October is the United Nation’s International day for the older person and after an unplanned respite last year, the achievements and value of older people is again being celebrated here  in the Cayman Islands.

The local theme ‘You’re Never Old if You’re Young at Heart’ was intended for last October, and has been revived for this year.

On the agenda for the event is the traditional Tea Party hosted by H.E the Governor Bruce Dinwiddy, as well as various other activities around the different districts.

Speaking of the special meaning of this year’s event, Organizing Committee Chairperson, and Department of Children and Family Services Special Needs Supervisor, Dawn Rankine said, “Our older residents were very much affected by Ivan, but their strength is an inspiration to the country.  We therefore will take this opportunity to celebrate their resilience.”

The focus this year will be on the contributions of older men and women towards the development of their families and the country, as well as information on how to cope with stress.  

While there is a core organizing committee, the effort is again being assisted by a range of people in the community, including church leaders, social workers, and family members.

Speaking about the importance of the older members of our community in a special message the Minister for Health and Human Services, Hon Anthony Eden said how much of a joy it was for him to listen to the stories of some of the Pines residents.

“Some are old seamen who keenly recall their days on the high seas, while other stalwarts reminisce about their days with kerosene lamps, mosquitoes and lengthy walks to town,” he said.

“As I listened to their vivid memories, I was reminded of what riches we have in our senior citizens. Not only are they our living history, but they have gathered invaluable experience and knowledge that come only with age.”

He said that we need to encourage our senior citizens to be dynamic and to remain active as long as they can because they have a lot to offer.

“We must persuade them to participate in and contribute to society to the extent of their health and strength and if they are confined by illness, we should still value them as part of our community, keeping them informed via visits and updates regarding what is currently happening,” added the Minister. “In these small but important ways, we can show appreciation for a lifetime of service.”

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