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By Gerard Howard, SECC Community Builders

‘Entertainment with a message’ was the key to a very successful Positive Ageing Celebration held at Eastlakes Community Centre on 13th June, 2017.

South Eastern Community Connect partnered with Bayside Council to host a program that kept the packed audience enthralled. At times people were left thoughtful and reflective, at other times they were left laughing with delight.

The Positive Ageing Celebration was based around the United Nations World Elder Abuse Awareness Day. Guest Speaker, Vicky Johnston, Deli Women and Children’s Centre, spoke on this theme, outlining the importance of maintaining the dignity of the person against various types of elder abuse.

The gathering then settled into a brief meditation session, followed by an art expression activity conducted by the very creative Maria Rosa Casanova, who shares her artistic flair voluntarily in the local area.

Next, the Older Women’s Network Theatre Group gave an engaging performance which highlighted in a very entertaining way, the themes of elder abuse and the dignity of ageing.

Patricia Lynch, a Physiotherapist from the Area Health Service, then demonstrated some key gentle exercises which assist with maintaining balance and preventing falls in the elderly. These exercises are part of the Stepping On Falls Prevention initiative, a free program which is available locally.

Illiana’s Belly Dance group then injected much energy into the program, so much so that many in the audience got to their feet & danced to the exotic rhythms of the music. Illiana emphasized the importance of remaining active and healthy as we all age.

A series of lucky door prizes were then drawn, followed by a delicious lunch being served. This gave the audience an opportunity to visit information tables staffed by local services including Kingsford Legal Centre, Ability Links, the Police, South Eastern Community Connect and Bayside Council.

All in all, June 13th in Eastlakes did indeed see a very Positive Ageing Celebration!

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