Older residents in Rhondda Cynon Taf are being encouraged to find out more about the activities, services and community networks available locally as the Council marks International Day of Older Persons on Thursday, October 1.
Celebrated around the world each year, International Day of Older Persons recognises the important contribution that older people make to society, while raising awareness of the challenges that can come with an ageing population.
This year’s UK theme, What’s on Your Doorstep?, encourages people to think about the relationships, activities, places and services available within their communities. It also celebrates the contribution older people make as volunteers, carers, workers, neighbours and members of local community groups.
Through the Age Friendly Communities programme in Rhondda Cynon Taf, the Council works alongside older residents, community organisations and partners to help make the County Borough a place where people feel valued, included and respected as they grow older.
This work is supported by established community networks, including 50+ Forums, Neighbourhood Networks, the Older Persons Advisory Group (OPAG) and the RCT Community Support Steering Group. These networks help older residents share their experiences, influence local activity and identify what matters most to people in their communities.
The Council’s Older Persons Coordinator, who is externally funded by Welsh Government, plays an important role in bringing this work together by supporting the development of age-friendly activity and ensuring that the experiences and views of older residents help shape local work.
Examples of the wider support and activities available include:
- Older People’s Forums: Five forums across Rhondda Cynon Taf provide opportunities for older residents to meet others, make new friends, have their voices heard and help shape local services and activities. The forums welcome new members and organise activities throughout the year.
- Dementia Support: Dementia Hubs across the County Borough continue to provide valuable support and information for older people and their families and carers.
- Information and Awareness: The Upper Rhondda Forum arranged for South Wales Police to deliver a scams awareness session, helping older people recognise fraud and stay safe online.
- Men’s Sheds: Local Men’s Sheds provide welcoming spaces where people can meet others, share skills and interests, and take part in practical activities.
- Health and Wellbeing: Partnership working has enabled forum members to access important health information and support. A visit from Cwm Taf Morgannwg WISE Team gave members of one forum information about atrial fibrillation, high blood pressure and stroke prevention, alongside free heart rate and blood pressure checks, leading several members to seek further medical advice and treatment.
- Community Campaigns: Members of Pontyclun 50+ Forum established the annual Turn Pontyclun Blue campaign to raise awareness of dementia and create a more supportive community. The initiative now brings together local residents, community groups, businesses and Pontyclun Community Council.
- Social Activities: The wide range of social activities organised by forums throughout the year, including summer trips to places such as Mumbles and Devon, as well as Christmas dinners and seasonal events that help reduce isolation and bring people together socially.
These are just some of the examples of the work taking place to support older residents across Rhondda Cynon Taf and help people age well in their communities.
Maria, Older Persons Coordinator for Rhondda Cynon Taf, said: “There is a great deal of activity taking place within communities across Rhondda Cynon Taf, much of it is created or supported by older people themselves.
“Our 50+ Forums, community groups and local networks give residents opportunities to meet others, share their experiences and help shape what happens in their area.
“From organising social activities and community campaigns to working with partners to provide information and awareness sessions, the forums respond to the interests and priorities of their members.
“We want older residents to know that there are groups, services and opportunities available locally, and that the forums are always keen to welcome new members.”
Councillor Gareth Caple, Cabinet Member for Social Care and Older Persons Champion, said: “International Day of Older Persons is an important opportunity to celebrate the contribution older people make to communities throughout Rhondda Cynon Taf.
“Our older residents bring knowledge, experience and commitment to their communities, supporting neighbours, volunteering, caring for others and helping local groups and organisations thrive.
“Through Age Friendly Rhondda Cynon Taf, our Older Persons Coordinator and our work with community groups and partner organisations, we remain committed to listening to older residents and supporting communities where everyone can live and age well.”
Rhondda Cynon Taf is a member of the World Health Organization’s Global Network for Age-friendly Cities and Communities. Find out more: Age Friendly Rhondda Cynon Taf | Rhondda Cynon Taf County Borough Council
Find out more about International Day of Older Persons: International Day of Older People 2026: What’s on Your Doorstep? | Centre for Ageing Better
Posted on 01/10/2026