International Day of Older Persons
October 1st is the International Day of Older Persons. To celebrate, the National Film Board of Canada in conjunction with the Canadian Association of Gerontology and the National Initiative for the Care of the Elderly is holding a free Toronto screening of “The Elder Project”, a new documentary by Eva Colmers. The film starts at 3 p.m. and will be followed by a panel discussion.
“The Elder Project” is an intimate look at the experiences of seven different seniors over a two-year period. Their perspectives on aging are as varied as their stories. Arn, an active, 86 year-old farmer says, “…retirement as far as I’m concerned, is working every day”. Clara, whose failing eyesight and dependence on a walker limits her mobility, has this advice: “Never get old. I always thought it would be the golden age. It’s no golden age...”
The film will resonate with seniors who often feel that their concerns aren’t being heard and who wish to grow old with dignity and respect. It will also provide much needed insight for their families and for professionals who work in the retirement residence and elder care industries.For more information about the screening call: 416-973-3012 or visit Toronto Mediatheque.
If you can’t make it to the screening you can purchase a DVD of “The Elder Project”on the NFB site for $19.95
Celebrate “International Day of Older Persons” with these other great NFB films:
“A Sunday at 105”: A day in the life of a charming Acadian grandma and centenarian, caught on film by her grandson.
“The Company of Strangers”: A popular NFB film in which eight older women become friends after they are stranded in a farmhouse.
“George and Rosemary”: An animated romantic comedy about George’s passion for his neighbour Rosemary - and what he finally does about it.
