Age is no barrier for living life in the fast lane

Since Victorian senior, Pat Desmond, hit her mid 50s, the 73-year-old has kept active, jumped out of a plane and travelled overseas. As part of the 2010 Victorian Seniors Festival celebrations on 3 October, Ms Desmond will tick off add another activity on her wish list of achievements when she joins 15 other seniors to don motorcycle leathers for a ride on the back of a Harley Davidson.

She could well be Victoria’s poster woman for active ageing, after retiring six years ago, she continues to keep herself busy by regularly going swimming, walking, watching her grandchildren play football, mowing the lawn, and going on road trips with friends.

“I’ve always wanted to ride on a motorbike, so I’m looking forward to it,” she said.

The ride from Anzac Parade to Federation Square has been organised by Aged & Community Care Victoria (ACCV), Alzheimer’s Australia Victoria, Annecto, Arcare, Baptcare, Benetas, Southern Cross Care and Villa Maria, as part of the Be Inspired! Campaign – encouraging older people to achieve their dreams and keep active within the community.

The organisations joined together to run the campaign after witnessing first-hand through their aged and community care residents and clients that ageing can be a positive phase of life and a time when people can continue to achieve their dreams.

Ms Desmond is also one of a growing number of Victorian seniors learning how to navigate the Internet.

“I try and keep active and that’s the main thing. It’s like everything, if you don’t use it, you lose it,” Ms Desmond said.

Chief executive officer (CEO) of ACCV, Gerard Mansour, will join Ms Desmond and other seniors on the motorbike ride, alongside adventurous CEOs from participating aged and community care organisations.

Mr Mansour said the event also aimed to acknowledge and thank older Victorians for the valued economic and social contribution they make to our community.

“Be Inspired promotes a positive image of ageing by demonstrating that ageing doesn’t mean we have to give up on our hopes and dreams. Older people have dreams too, and for many, on Sunday, those dreams will come true with thanks to our industry’s dedication to their care and wellbeing.

“The campaign is a first in Victoria and sees ACCV working together with government and aged and community care providers to promote our message of positive ageing,” he said.

For more information on the Be Inspired! campaign, visit http://www.accv.com.au/