September to be observed as ‘Month of the Elderly’ under the theme ‘Embracing Elderly Everywhere’

The month of September is being observed as the ‘Month of the Elderly’ by the Dominica Council on Ageing Inc. The theme for this year is: “Embracing the Elderly Everywhere.” The Council has put together a schedule of activities for the month leading up to the ‘International Day of Older Persons’, October 1, 2017. 
 
According to a release, "The most serious factors affecting the elderly among us entail abuse in various sectors, neglect and disrespect."
 
In that regard, the DCOA strongly advocates the inclusion of the elderly in all areas of life on the island, particularly where their wisdom and knowledge are recognized and appreciated.
 
All of the Council’s activities for the Month of the Elderly 2017 will seek in some measure to enhance the lives of the seniors in Dominica.  The Council will seek to create awareness as to the ills facing older persons, and provide moments of learning, teaching, sharing, caring, socializing and fund raising.
 
A main feature of the programme this year is a Prestige Evening where the new Board of Directors will be officially inaugurated alongside its youth arm and a Diaspora Networking desk. Awards will be presented to a number of partners and a Centenarian Dossier will also be presented for the first time.
 
A main feature to close the Month is a “Bitin Gwan Moun All White Affair”.  The festive gathering will mark the International Day of Older Persons and will include praise and worship as well as opportunities for elders to meet, greet and be entertained.
 
The Mission Statement of the DCOA Inc. is to empower older persons to live life to the fullest. The Council will celebrate 25 years of existence in 2018 and will expect to continue to impact many more lives than those within its 28 centenarians, 32 organized groups and 93 individual members.