Examples of how to grow old well were on display at Age Concern Otago yesterday, when the organisation celebrated International Day of the Older Person a day early by holding its inaugural Person of Value awards ceremony.
Eight people from clubs and groups in the Dunedin area were nominated for an inspirational club award and an inspirational community award, with the public invited to vote for nominees they believed worthy of the honours.
Age Concern executive officer Susan Davidson said it had been a "lovely experience", though the nominees found it hard to be in the spotlight.
They were "excellent examples of what it means to grow old well," she said.
Lorraine David, of Waikouaiti, received the community award for her work with everyone from newborns to the elderly.
Among other things, she delivered meals on wheels, collected for the Cancer Society, was a Blue Ribbon Club member, and a volunteer paper delivery person.
Though she described herself as "a background girl", she was honoured by the award.
Max Taylor, who received the club award for about 20 years of work at the Octagon Club, was also humbled for having his contribution to putting "fun into club activities" recognised.
"The only time I've ever received a certificate in my life was in Standard 4, for growing parsnips," he said.
