Positive ageing supported in Geelong with array of events

The City of Geelong's Positive Ageing Program is back starting 1st October 2024 and will deliver an array of activities to promote and support healthy ageing for people aged 55+.

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

The Program aligns with October being Senior's Month, Victorian Seniors Festival and World Mental Health Day on 10th October with the calendar of events aimed at assisting residents in staying connected and remaining resilient.

Physical activity, social connection and mental health and wellbeing are important as we age. 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 over 40 activities and events for people aged 55+ in the Greater Geelong region running from October to March.

Printed copies will be available for collection at Geelong Regional Libraries branches. https://www.grlc.vic.gov.au/locate

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

Activities are opportunities to:

• increase physical activity

• promote mental health and wellbeing

• increase social connection

• recognise and celebrate achievements

• support positive ageing

• engage in intergenerational activities.

Greater Geelong Mayor Trent Sullivan notes “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.

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

Deputy Mayor Anthony Aitken added “the program aligns with the City's Positive Ageing Strategy to ensure our ageing community is respected, connected and thriving.

“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.”

As part of last year's program, there were 39 events held between October 2023 and March 2024 to help celebrate and connect.

City of Greater Geelong  is also supporting Serenity in the Stadium on World Mental Health Day, Thursday 10th October -  a one-hour guided mass yoga class of up to 2000 people on GMHBA Stadium and a collaboration between Active Geelong and Read The Play.

It’s all about highlighting the importance of physical activity and social connection on mental health outcomes.

Whether you’re an experienced yogi or just starting out, this event is about more than just yoga. It’s a chance to connect, support each other, and embrace movement and mindfulness in a supportive setting.