30 September 2011

Keep an eye out for our older people on International Day

National Seniors is calling on Australians to recognise the contributions seniors make to the community on Saturday, October 1, International Day of the Older Person.

Chief executive Michael O’Neill said the contributions older Australians make to society and the economy were often over looked.

“Older Australians are our foundations: they’re doctors and teachers, mums and dads, lifesavers and fire fighters, and the volunteers in our hospitals, schools, and businesses across the country,” he said.

“But often we don’t see that. And just as often, because we’re all so busy, we might not see that old neighbour who could do with a cup of tea or a friendly chat”.

“Without the networks, growing old alone can be isolating”.

“This year we’ve heard stories of older Australians left to die in their own homes without anyone noticing for weeks, sometimes months,” O’Neill said. “In this day and age, and in this society, it just shouldn’t happen.

“International Day of the Older Person is an opportunity to say g’day and reconnect with the older people around us”.

Queensland and New South Wales have led the way in introducing dedicated Grandparents Days in the past couple of years. National Seniors looks forward to the other states following suit.

Michael O’Neill is available for comment today and on the weekend.

International Day of the Older Person was first launched by the United Nations General Assembly in 1990 to recognise the contribution of older people around the world.

Media: Casey-Ann Seaniger 0422 391 627.

---

With a quarter of a million members Australia-wide, National Seniors is the consumer lobby for the over 50s. It is the fourth largest organisation of its type in the world