"Ageing with dignity" is the theme of this year's senior citizen's week. Activities began yesterday but the week was officially opened today at Helpage centers countrywide. In the city there was a variety show at the Sister Cecilia Home for the Elderly and_ 7NEWS_ was there.
Keith Swift Reporting,
Never mind girls, seniors just want to have fun. The youngest is 50 years old and most are much older than that. But seniors like Martha Noralez who is a proud 70 and counting says age has nothing to do with it.
Martha Noralez, 70 years old
"I'm very happy and I didn't even know I would reach 70 years old but I'm very glad to occupy myself in it. When I am among the old people you feel happy."
But more than happiness, Helpage Belize says the focus this week will be on helping seniors to age with dignity.
Jamiela Vasquez, Vice-Chair HelpAge Belize
"Looking in the dictionary it means to hold somebody in high regard and we kind of forget doing that nowadays and we always say they are old people and they are always in the way. We have things to learn from them and they are part of our history and you can't plan your future without your history. So that is basically the theme: dignity, respect, high-esteem, and they've earned it so its time for us to pay them back."
Sharon Polack, Executive Director - HelpAge Belize
"In the past families used to look after the older person in the family but it has come to a point where children emigrate so there is a great need to look after the older persons."
It is a task three Holy Redeemer Primary students were ready to take up this afternoon. They already have special plans for that special older person in their lives.
Keith Swift,
Who is somebody older in your life that you look up to and what are you going to do special for them this week?
Kyle Reneau, Holy Redeemer Student
"My grandmother, she is 82, and I will bake her a cake."
Carlos Zelaya, Holy Redeemer Student
"My grandfather, 73 years old, I will go over Friday afternoon and keep his company."
Sherina Meighan, Holy Redeemer Student
"That older person would be my mom because she's 52 years old and I'm probably going to sing her a song just to brighten up her day."
Jamiela Vasquez,
"They need to have more respect, they need to give more love. Care you can give, money you can always give them, but they need your time, they need your love, and they need your caring."
And this afternoon they showed that it doesn't take much to get this over 50 club in a rollicking party mood.
Other highlights for the week will include a field trip to the Musuem of Belize tomorrow, a tea party on Wednesday, and a birthday party in Cayo for Maria Pineda who will be turning 100 years old. The week culminates on Saturday which is International Day for Older Persons.
