Ageing with Attitude

A French writer once said “It’s not how old you are, but how you are old.” (Jules Renard) 

I work with people embodying this spirit in everything they do. Focussed on living well, having fun, staying fit and staying connected to what is happening in our communities. Age Concern is a vibrant organisation ensuring older people are living their best lives. Because older people are extraordinary. Resilient. Adaptable to the mind-boggling changes that occur in our world every day.

            Our team and our people here in the Wairarapa hold exercise classes, go dancing and plan the most excellent adventures together. We organise events, outings, workshops and guest speakers on subjects that vary from writing your story to planning for your future, to refreshing your knowledge of the road code – and anything else that takes your interest! 

We bring company and conversation to those who don’t get around much anymore. If an older person is being abused or harmed, we work with kaumatua and their family/ whānau and community to keep them safe. Our national office advocates for better social housing, reducing isolation and loneliness and keeping us safe. 

My favourite part of this work is that age concerns everyone! Age Concern Wairarapa works in communities from Eketahuna to the southest-south, and in 2021 we intend to be out and about in Martinborough often, including one of the team working from a base in the Waihinga Centre once a month…when we confirm the days, we’ll let you know and you can come along! Drop in for a confidential conversation on any issues affecting you directly, or an older person that you care about. 

Bring your questions about issues, activities and services affecting people 65+. Let’s talk about your interests, ideas for groups you would like to see. Let us help with filling in an application for a Total Mobility discount card, or chat through advance care planning (which is relevant for each of us, no matter our age).

Finally, please put a big circle around Saturday, March 20, 2021 on the calendar! We’re hosting an exhilarating EXPO of events, speakers, activities, products and services in support of healthy ageing for everyone, even if your hair isn’t grey yet. 

More details will follow soon, so please plan to join us at the Solway Showgrounds in Masterton for an informative, interesting and fun day out! (NB Shuttles will be provided from and to Martinborough for those who don’t drive, details to follow.)

I decided to call this article “Ageing with Attitude” because that is what I see every day in neighbourhoods, my office and when I look in the mirror! If you can’t make it to see us in person, please call us with any questions on 06-377-0066 or email me on manager@acww.nz – Nik Rilkoff