The wider community was able to experience the Positive Aging Expo held at Caroline Bay Hall in Timaru last week.
The expo aimed to help the older community explore services and options that were available to them that they might not have known about.
Age Concern South Canterbury manager Chris Thomas said the event had a great atmosphere and a positive response.
‘‘It was really good. People got a great deal out of the expo.
‘‘It was really nice to be able to do this event.’’
Mr Thomas said it helped meet a need for the community and provided a place where people could get together to see what was available to them.
‘‘It gave them a chance to update themselves on the opportunities that are out there for them. It was a blockbuster of a day.’’
He would like to make the expo an annual event but wanted to see what feedback the public and exhibitors had.
‘‘We will need a bigger venue if we are to do it again as we had to turn away 20 exhibitors from this event.
‘‘Older people are not considered for events — most are catered to younger people but older people enjoy learning and connecting at events, too.’’
Timaru Mayor Nigel Bowen said he had only dropped into the event for a look and ended up staying for about two hours.
‘‘This event was great for Age Concern as they struggled a bit during Covid-19 and it seems they have growing pains in their first year as they will likely have to expand.’’
Mr Bowen said it was great to see the collaboration between the agencies and the clubs.
‘‘Seeing how many from the wider community came out to support the event showed that there is a real need for it.’’
