Celebrating International Older People’s Day at Middleton Hall: Embracing the Joy of Older Life

On 1st October 2024, the community will gather at Middleton Hall to mark International Older People’s Day with a special celebration, focusing on the theme “The Joy of Older Life”. The event, organised in partnership with Age UK Milton Keynes and local schools, will spotlight the invaluable contributions of older generations while fostering connections between young and old.

The afternoon will commence at 1:00 PM with a keynote address from Ben Heyworth, Director of Arts for Health MK, who will reflect on the positive aspects of ageing. The event will also feature an art exhibition, running from 27th September to 1st October, showcasing the work of local children on the theme “Joy in Older Life”. This initiative encourages young people to reflect on the lives and experiences of older members of the community, fostering a deeper understanding between generations.

The celebration will culminate in an award ceremony recognising the winners of the children’s art competition, alongside a storytelling session where visitors can listen to personal narratives from those who lived through the 1950s to the 1980s. These stories aim to bring history to life, offering a unique perspective on past decades through the eyes of those who experienced them.

Event Highlights

• Keynote Speaker: Ben Heyworth, Director of Arts for Health MK
• Art Exhibition: Displaying work from local schools, 27th September – 1st October
• Award Ceremony: Recognising young artists for their creativity
• Storytelling: Sharing personal stories from older generations

Simon Tuck, Events and Community Fundraiser at Age UK Milton Keynes, said: “This celebration is an opportunity to honour the wisdom and experiences of our older generation while encouraging intergenerational connections through creativity and storytelling. We hope it will inspire people of all ages to appreciate the value of older life and the voices of those who’ve lived through extraordinary times.”

The event is free and open to all, including families, friends, and community members of all ages. Free tickets can be reserved online, and early registration is encouraged to help with seating arrangements.

For tickets and further details, visit: https://www.ticketsource.co.uk/ageukmiltonkeynes/international-older-people-day/e-aelxxb.