Dancing, games and shopping for cultural items were among the activities on offer Friday as dozens of residents came together at the Queen Elizabeth II Park in Road Town in celebration of Senior Citizens Month.
Marking a rough halfway point in a month dedicated to the territory’s elderly residents, the Seniors’ Cultural Soirée was held under the theme “Flip the Script on Aging.”
Sitting in a lawn chair, Celia Pickering watched residents compete in games as a band played under a nearby gazebo.
Asked if she enjoyed watching the elderly audience members face off in a game of bean bag toss, Ms. Pickering responded in the affirmative.
“It was really exciting,” she said. “I like to see the seniors participating in the games. That’s a lot of fun.”
(Photo: RUSHTON SKINNER)
(Photo: RUSHTON SKINNER)-
(Photo: RUSHTON SKINNER)
-
(Photo: RUSHTON SKINNER)
-
(Photo: RUSHTON SKINNER)
-
(Photo: RUSHTON SKINNER)
‘Wisdom and traditions’
Health and Social Development Minister Vincent Wheatley spoke highly of the seniors.
“Our seniors are the bedrock of this territory, and they carry our history, wisdom and traditions,” he said in a Tuesday press release. “The Cultural Soirée is more than just a celebration: It’s a reminder of the value our elders bring to national life. I am proud to see our communities coming together to honour and uplift our seniors.”
Shirma George, the acting chief social development officer, noted that some attendees had come from the United States Virgin Islands.
“We are grateful to our partners, caregivers, staff and especially our seniors who continue to inspire us with their energy and cultural pride,” she said. “Events like the Cultural Soirée not only foster intergenerational learning but also create joy, fellowship and cherished memories. This exchange with our USVI guests is a testament to the unity and shared heritage of our islands.”
Other events
The month’s activities are ongoing.
Yesterday, Seniors’ Sports Day was held at the Multi-purpose Sports Complex, and the schedule for this weekend includes a Senior Prom on Saturday on Virgin Gorda and a Senior Spelling Bee Sunday on Tortola.
Next Tuesday will be the Jost Van Dyke Social, and events will wrap up with the Senior Ball on May 31.
British Caribbean News
