International Day Older Persons, Friday 1 October

This year the theme is ‘Digital Equity for All Ages’ and affirms the need for access and meaningful participation in the digital world by older persons.

Sutton has an older than average population, since 2011 there has been a 17.7% increase in the number of people aged 65 and over. 

Earlier this year, Age UK Sutton completed a programme of engagement to understand what matters most to older people in Sutton and how they have been impacted by the pandemic. A programme of work is being developed, in partnership with Age UK Sutton, based on what older residents have said about what matters most to them. 

Councillor Ruth Dombey, Leader of Sutton Council, said: “We have made a commitment to become a more Age Friendly Borough and are working in partnership with Age UK Sutton to make this a reality.  

“In the spirit of today’s theme of digital access, there are so many things you can try out from the comfort of your home - whatever you are doing today, make it a fun, digital day!”

Volunteers from Age UK Sutton have served older people in Sutton for over 25 years. Join them for a Virtual Friday Club where you can ‘meet’ for a cuppa and a chat. Find out more at www.ageuk.org.uk/sutton/ 

Sutton Libraries have lots on offer

• Our Digital Resources centre can help you access a range of digital content from eBooks to online training or tracing your family tree

• The Digital Information centre that has a directory of free websites containing all sorts of things like fitness plans, crossword puzzles, online theatre shows and more

• Facebook Digital Saturdays - short, bite-sized videos that show you how to find and read books and newspapers on your smart device

Virtual sightseeing tours

• Sutton's Heritage Service runs a virtual tour of the beautiful Little Holland House, the former home of artist, designer and craftsman Frank Dickinson and his wife, Florence. View paintings, hand-made furniture, furnishings, metalwork and carving, in a unique fusion of Art Nouveau and the English Arts and Crafts style. Take a virtual tour! 

• Or take a virtual visit around Whitehall House, an amazing Grade 11 Listed Tudor house in Cheam