Age Concern New Zealand Dignity and Respect Campaign

A Dignity and Respect Campaign is set to be launched by Age Concern New Zealand as part of International Day of Older Person’s on October 1.

The official launch will be held at Wellington’s Hotel Intercontinental and will be attended by high profile guests including Wellington’s Mayor Celia Wade-Brown.

Veteran broadcaster Judy Bailey will give a personal perspective on why dignity and respect matter, and three organisations will be honoured as Dignity Champions.

The organization’s National President, Evelyn Weir, says Age Concern is striving to create a society in which everyone is valued, supported and empowered regardless of their age.

“We are calling New Zealanders from all walks of life to join us and become Age Concern Dignity Champions.”

Mrs Weir says stereotypes about ageing are powerful and can dictate the way we think and respond.

“How often do we hear older people referred to as a burden? Where kindness and patience are needed we don’t always measure up. This lack of respect can lead to a loss of dignity, social isolation, and abuse and neglect of older people.”

Age Concerns around New Zealand will also observe the day with a large variety of events being held including many “Tea and Talk” events.

Tea and Talk events are a chance to get together for a cuppa and a chat while talking about dignity and respect.

The Dignity and Respect Campaign launch kicks off Age Concern Awareness Week 2012. The week is an opportunity to find out more about the important work Age Concerns throughout the country do to serve the needs of older people.

For more information about events in your area, or to find out more about the Dignity and Respect Campaign visit www.ageconcern.org.nz

ENDS

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