Revamped ZestFest SA to redefine modern ageing

Organised by Council On The Ageing (COTA) SA, the festival runs until 27 October and aims to celebrate, connect and challenge the concept of ageing.

Previously known as the Every Generation Festival, ZestFest Coordinator Jayne Boase says it is a ‘fresh new take’ on the annual event, which is now in its 50th year.

“We felt that it didn’t sum up what the festival was enough as people didn’t recognise that it was a festival for older people. It was time for a shake up and new look,” Ms Boase says.

The slogan, ‘celebrate, connect and challenge the concept of ageing’ is also intended to invoke thought around the discussion of how aging is viewed today.

“I didn’t want to take a paternalistic approach but challenge stereotypes of ageing. For instance, describing older people as “old souls” wasn’t going to reach the broadest segment of the older community,” she says.

“I wanted to challenge the concept of ageing, namely how we are aging now and how we expect to age in the future. We are doing things differently now and will continue to do things differently in the future.

“We’re stepping outside the yesteryear notions of aging. We’re not looking back at how our grandparents are aging, but looking forward at how we are aging.”

With over 200 of both free and low cost events, ZestFest SA incorporates a range of events for seniors across all ages.

The 60+ Moments digital photography project involves the collection of selfies from older people answering the question, ‘What Gives Your Life Zest?’. These selfies will be displayed at the 60+ Moments outdoor projection events, to be held after dark across Whyalla, Victor Harbour, Adelaide, Renmark and Mount Gambier beginning of 19 October.

The Zest-full-ness Well Being Workshop will include a range of guest speakers covering topics such as travel, mindfulness and spirituality. This event will be held on Hindley Street Monday 23 October.

Ms Boase is hopeful that people from all walks of life will attend and participate.

“Seniors will find entertainment, intellectual stimulation, a way to get involved in community and connect with others of all age,” she explains.

“I hope that they feel the reinvigoration and revitalisation in the concept of themselves as an older person.

“I strongly encourage everyone in our society to come along to at least one event, and take part in it.”

Further detail on the 60+ Moments or Zest-full-ness Well Being Workshop is available online along with a full list of events.