THE Bupa care home in Bishop’s Stortford is one of more than 200 across the country planning a week-long programme of activities in support of UK Older People’s Day 2008, on Wednesday, October 1.

Launched by the Government, UK Older People’s Day aims to create a positive view of later life, celebrate older people’s achievements and ensure they feel included in society.

The day will be the focus of Bupa’s Community Spirit Week, an annual initiative which helps tackle the problems of isolation amongst older people in the community.

This year Bupa care homes throughout the country are inviting local people to join their residents in a host of fun-packed activities ranging from quizzes and tea dances to afternoon teas and musical entertainment.

Premier Court Residential and Nursing Home which will be hosting a musical afternoon with a performance from the Hockerill Choir at 3pm on Sunday, October 5.

Home manager Clare Holland said: “UK Older People’s Day is a great chance to bring communities together and celebrate later life. A lifetime of achievement and experience is something to be valued and we think it’s really important to appreciate the role that older people play in our communities. Anyone who wants to come along and join us will be guaranteed a warm welcome.”

This is the fifth year that Bupa has organised Community Spirit Week, a joint project between Bupa Care Services and Bupa Community Connections.

Since its launch in 2003, more than 1,300 local Community Spirit Week events have been organised, with a record number of homes taking part this year.