EAST Sussex County Council and East Sussex Seniors’ Association have unveiled the 15th annual Older People’s Day events programme.

The Full of Life programme celebrates the role older people play in our communities and coincides with the UN International Day of Older Persons on October 1.

A mix of free and paid for in person activities and virtual events are open to the 50 plus age group across the county throughout September and October.

Starting with the first event on September 6, this year’s programme features age friendly activities ranging from museum visits, quizzes, and lunch clubs to film screenings, walks, and singalongs, as well as events for people with dementia.

Activities are taking place in locations across East Sussex including Battle, Bexhill, Crowborough, Eastbourne, Hastings, Newhaven and Seaford.

Lin Neeve, Chair of East Sussex Seniors’ Association, said: “The Older People’s Day events programme has brought a huge amount of pleasure to people over the last 15 years. After working with Covid restrictions for the last two years it is nice to be able to return to near normality with more in person events this year.

“I encourage older residents, their families and carers to see what’s on offer. Whether you attend on your own or with a friend or family member, the activities are a great opportunity to meet new people and try something different – perhaps something that you might want to do regularly.”

Events being held include a visit to Hastings Museum and Art Gallery, a day trip to Battle, a talk about the Kent Surrey Sussex Air Ambulance Charity in Eastbourne, and a singalong session for people with dementia and their carers in Bexhill.

Cllr Carl Maynard, East Sussex County Council lead member for adult social care and health, said: “Older People’s Day is all about recognising the important contribution older people make to our communities.

“We’re delighted once again to support a varied programme of events across East Sussex which I hope will help to promote an active and healthy lifestyle among our older residents.”

People can view the full programme and find out more information about events taking place in their area at www.eastsussex.gov.uk/olderpeoplesday.

Event booklets will be available from libraries, council buildings and other community venues from early September.

The Older People’s Day events programme is supported by East Sussex County Council, East Sussex Seniors’ Association and the NHS, in partnership with leisure centres, local councils, charities, community and voluntary organisations.

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