Putting action into age: It’s entirely up to you

“THE wiser mind mourns less for what age takes away than what it leaves behind,” never a truer phrase was uttered by the famous William Wordsworth and it’s one we should all learn by heart. Ageing should be a positive process, one where the culmination of many years’ experience count for more than just a number. The one thing about ‘positivity’ is that it’s a mental construct that lies solely at the discretion of the individual and no circumstances (or person) can ever alter your wish to remain positive if you truly wish to be that way.

In the ancient East - back in the age of Confucius - ageing was something that was richly celebrated; something that brought substance, ritual and intuition to a community and could be passed down to the next generation. This is also true of Western cultures and even though in recent times the celebration of ageing regrettably waned slightly, there is, thankfully, a resurgence as we, as a society, now begin to appreciate again the value, wisdom and contribution of our elderly and all they add to a community.

Positive Ageing Week 2016 takes place from September 26th to October 2nd and while every week should be a positive one, people are particularly encouraged during this one week in the year to get out there and celebrate the milestone that is growing old, happy and content with life. But it’s also a week when young and old are encouraged to combine together to celebrate positive ageing. There’s nothing to stop schools, youth clubs, museums, businesses and sporting clubs from organising events with the elderly in mind. This could take the form of visits to older people, walks, tea mornings, socialising, field-trips, or religious and spiritual themed events. The options are endless. All that’s required is input and commitment. Remember, it’s what age leaves behind that we should celebrate. So be sure to put plenty of action into age during Positive Ageing Week.