Senior Citizens Encouraged to Stay Active and Engaged

Minister of Labour and Social Security, Hon. Pearnel Charles Jr., is encouraging seniors to register with the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) and become active members of senior citizens’ clubs, which he says provide opportunities for engagement, personal development, and service to others.

He particularly encouraged older men to become involved, urging seniors to make the most of this stage of their lives by participating in activities, pursuing their interests, and enjoying the companionship of others.

The Minister also challenged senior citizens’ clubs to encourage members to move beyond perceived age-related limitations and continue pursuing new ideas, opportunities, and personal growth.

“We want senior citizens’ clubs to encourage seniors to break barriers. Who says you can’t invent something that becomes a billion-dollar product used around the world? Why not?” he asked, underscoring the potential for older persons to continue achieving, innovating, and contributing in new ways.

Minister Charles also urged representatives of clubs to encourage other older persons, including those in their churches and communities, to become involved and take advantage of the opportunities available to them.

Speaking during the National Council for Senior Citizens (NCSC) Region Three Awards Ceremony, held at the Terra Nova All-Suite Hotel in St. Andrew on Thursday (October 8), Mr. Charles called on senior citizens’ clubs to extend their reach by engaging younger people who may benefit from additional guidance, mentorship, and support.

He noted that raising and guiding children can be challenging and suggested that older persons can play a vital role by sharing their experience and providing meaningful support.

Emphasising the value of intergenerational mentorship, he said many young people need not only tutoring but also guidance and encouragement from older adults. 

Reflecting on his own upbringing, Mr. Charles recalled the positive influence of older men who supported, mentored, and helped guide him, highlighting the value of mentorship and the significant role older persons can play in positively shaping the lives of younger generations.

He encouraged senior citizens to dedicate some of their time to this type of support, while urging clubs to foster connections that benefit both older and younger members of their communities

The ceremony recognised the outstanding contributions of senior citizens and stakeholders across Kingston, St. Thomas, Portland, and St. Mary. 

Held under the theme ‘Honouring a Golden Legacy, Shaping a Bold Future’,  the event formed part of the National Council for Senior Citizens’ 50th  anniversary celebrations.