The Government recognised the importance of Bermuda’s seniors ahead of an international day honouring their contributions.

The International Day of Older Persons will be celebrated on October 1 under the theme “Older Persons Driving Local and Global Action: Our Aspirations, Our Wellbeing and Our Rights”.

The Ministry of Youth, Social Development and Seniors said the theme was a “powerful reminder” that seniors were active contributors to society.

A ministry spokeswoman added: “We must change the narrative and dismantle the stigmas that portray ageing solely as decline.

“Instead, we must affirm ageing as a stage of strength, dignity and continued contribution.”

The ministry spokeswoman said that ageism still remained a barrier for seniors, whether in the form of stereotypes, discrimination or exclusion.

She said that the ministry was fighting the prejudice through policies and services that targeted topics such as healthcare and employment.

The spokeswoman added: “Over the past year, the ministry has advanced several initiatives to support older persons.

“These include expanding community programmes that reduce isolation and promote healthy ageing, enhancing access to social support services and strengthening partnerships with voluntary and community organisations.

“We have also introduced public education campaigns to raise awareness about ageism and highlight the positive contributions of older persons, while developing policies that ensure older persons can age with security, dignity and respect.”

The ministry spokeswoman said that fostering an “intergenerational understanding” was also important to strengthen Bermuda’s community.

She explained that building bridges between younger and older citizens helped with the exchange of knowledge and ideas.

The spokeswoman added that discrimination had “no place in a fair and inclusive Bermuda” and that all forms of it would be stamped out.

She said: “As we look ahead, the ministry remains committed to listening to the voices of older persons, advancing their rights and supporting their aspirations.

“Together, let us build a society that values every stage of life, where older persons can thrive and continue to drive local and global action.”