International Day of Older Persons Event

Residents went on a trip down memory lane as they celebrated International Day of Older Persons with us at The Link Thamesmead on Sunday.
 
Historical photos on display started discussions about Thamesmead as an area, how people came to live here, the changes that have been made and excitement about the future. Free arts and crafts, manicures, massages and Zumba Gold were also offered.
 
Eighty-four-year-old, Marlborough Court Care Home resident, Catherine Thompson who moved to Thamesmead in the 1970s said: “Today has been lovely. I especially enjoyed looking at the old photos of Thamesmead – I remember the hot summer days of the 70s when everyone was out, having fun. I really enjoyed my shoulder massage too – I have never had one before.”
 
Whilst sixty-five-year-old Thamesmead resident, Teresa Gifford said: “It has been a fantastic event which has brought people together. I have lived in Thamesmead for 41 years – I was over the moon when I first moved here and I still love living here now.”
 
Trust Thamesmead’s Head of Partnerships and Engagement, Lucy Webb said: “Events like this give the Trust the perfect opportunity to engage with older residents about the different activities, opportunities, advice and guidance that is available to them in Thamesmead. There are eight community groups catering for the over 50s in the area, many from our community centres dotted across Thamesmead, and we have a fantastic range of lifelong learning opportunities and volunteering positions available. There is a lot of choice for residents to help them live a long and happy life.”
 
Sixty-seven-year-old Thamesmead resident, Barbara Goodman said: “I have really enjoyed the event, it is exactly what people need.”
 
Working with community organisations and community groups to make sure health and wellbeing activities and opportunities for older people are offered in Thamesmead so they lead a long, happy and healthy life is one of Trust Thamesmead’s core objectives.