The International Day of Older Persons was marked with a flag raising in Langley Township on Oct. 3.
The United Nations-sponsored day is intended to draw attention to stereotypes about aging and older persons.
This year’s theme is ageism, which is the driving force behind age-discrimination, in the workplace, in medical settings, and in the community. Ageism can limit the potential of older persons, hinder their rights, and impact their health, according to the United Nations.
The flag was raised by Langley’s seniors of the year Mario Sergi and Leslie Gaudette, a member of the council of advisors for the B.C. Seniors Advocate.
“We are fortunate in Langley to be committed to become an age-friendly community and have been recognized as such by the B.C. Ministry of Health,” said Gaudette.
Co-senior of the year Marilyn Sergi and Steve Trummler of the Canadian Association of Retired Persons (CARP) and local volunteer Marie-Luise Berryman were also present for the ceremony.
Langley Township Mayor Jack Froese along with Councillors Bob Long, Charlie Fox, and Angie Quaale, and Cathy Gibbs from Langley MLA Mary Polak’s office also took part.