Government launches campaign aimed at helping the elderly realise their dreams

The "Qatt Mhu Tard (It's Never Late)" campaign has been launched by Active Ageing and Care in the Community (AACC), the Parliamentary Secretariat for Active Ageing said in a statement on Monday.This campaign, the Secretariat said, is aimed at helping

By: independent.com.mt

Aug 26 2024
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Government launches campaign a

The "Qatt Mhu Tard (It's Never Late)" campaign has been launched by Active Ageing and Care in the Community (AACC), the Parliamentary Secretariat for Active Ageing said in a statement on Monday.

This campaign, the Secretariat said, is aimed at helping people over the age of 65 to "fulfil their dreams". It continued that the purpose of this initiative is for elderly people to have the opportunity to do what they have always wanted to do, but did not have the chance to.

The Secretariat said that the first phase of the campaign will focus on music, and will encourage the elderly to submit musical projects that they have always wanted to perform. It added that for this purpose, the sum of €10,000 has been allocated "to help the participants realise their dreams". It continued that while this first call is focused on music, the AACC is working to expand the initiative to other areas of arts and skills, "including literature, visual arts, drama, and traditional crafts".

Parliamentary Secretary for Active Ageing Malcolm Paul Agius Galea said that this campaign has particular value as a means for the elderly to remain engaged and involved. He said that this campaign is an opportunity for the elderly "to fulfil their dreams", and that seniors should be seen as another phase in life where one can continue to follow their passions rather than be seen as a period of end.

AACC CEO Dr Renzo Degabriele and Mr Joe Aquilina were also present for the news conference. The Secretariat said that Aquilina is an elderly man who plays spiritual records in Maltese and uses them to cheer people up inside the residential houses. Degabriele said that this initiative does not only provide financial aid but also promotes intergenerational collaboration by connecting the elderly with young artists.

Those seeking more information on this initiative or on other services offered by AACC can contact the Senior Service Centre at 2278 8900. You can also visit the offices at 3, Triq Żekka, Valletta. Those in Gozo can contact the centre at 2278 8238 or visit the offices at 39, Repubblika Street, Rabat Gozo. Information can also be obtained by phoning the 153 freephone.