Masterton folk are Ageing with Attitude

BILL OF HEALTH: Bill Hamilton of Masterton has a blood pressure test by Whaiora registered nurse Hera Edwards.

Up to 500 people were expected through the doors of the Masterton Town Hall for the second annual Ageing with Attitude Expo yesterday.

Ruth Carter, chairwoman of Age Concern Wairarapa WOOPs, said the annual event was held to coincide with the International Day of Older persons and for the first time was organised solely through Age Concern Wairarapa this year.

The event was geared to age-related concerns and issues, she said, but younger expo-goers and the families of older people were also welcome.

"We were hoping to attract the young through to the older people, and the families of older people, so they can put in place those things you need as you grow older."

Annette Peters, Age Concern Wairarapa programme co-ordinator, said there were over 55 stalls at the event yesterday, with a silent auction and nine workshops run throughout the day.

Stallholders offered advice and solutions about a range of subjects including massage, the Masterton Tramping Club, Civil Defence, interactive toys, health and specialist footwear and furniture, travel consultants and a Master Quilters display.

Workshops focussed on relicensing for older drivers, retirement housing, avoiding scammers and financial fraudsters, health and sessions with a life coach.

The Age Concern Melody-Makers choir also sung alongside renowned Wairarapa entertainer Stefan Brown in a town hall carpark performance, where a selection of classic and collector cars had likewise found an enviable place in the sun.

Mrs Peters said about 500 people had attended the inaugural event last year and she was hoping to attract about the same number this time around as well.

Mrs Carter said event sponsors also had been generous with their time and support this year, although any other organisations or groups wanting to pitch in as sponsors should contact Age Concern Wairarapa WOOPs at 06 377 0066 or email admin@woops.org.nz.