Mary Lunney celebrated her 95th birthday yesterday and, today, she got dressed up again for the unveiling of her portrait at an Upper Canada Mall photo exhibit.
In honour of the United Nations’ declaration that Oct. 1 be recognized as International Day of Older Persons, the Regional Municipality of York mounted a 10-portrait exhibit featuring 10 residents of long-term care home Newmarket Health Centre. This year’s global theme is Celebrating Older Human Rights Champions.
"Older human rights champions ... are as diverse as the society in which they live: from older people advocating for human rights at the grassroot and community level to high-profile figures on the international stage. Each and every one demands equal respect and acknowledgement for their dedication and commitment to contributing to a world free from fear and free from want," states the United Nations.
All the portrait subjects were on hand for the unveiling, including many of their respective family members. There was plenty of “wows” as the plain brown paper was peeled upward to reveal the portraits, and guests rushed up the photographs to read the inscribed advice the residents had for their younger selves.
“It’s important to always be yourself,” wrote June, 90, a mother and grandmother who describes herself as a “people person” who always loved the hustle and bustle of a busy house. “Be kind to yourself and others.”
Toni, who is 80-something and grew up in the theatre with her performer parents in London, England, says, “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch! Be prepared for all possible outcomes.”
When asked what the secret is to a happy, healthy life and longevity, Lunney replies with a surprised laugh, “Oh, well, I don’t have any secrets.” She says she tries to the make the best of things, and loves to crochet.
James, 93, a father of two and grandfather of five, has this advice: “In business, take the time to focus on the details and be a great listener. Presentations and first impressions matter.”
The senior population is growing faster than any other cohort in York Region, says Brian Swainson, the region’s director of long-term care services. He was on hand this morning to launch the photo exhibit. By 2026, seniors are expected to outnumber children.
“My piece of advice to my younger self is be kind to each other, be kind to yourself, and make the most of every day,” he told the audience.
The region has a seniors’ strategy in place that aims to, among other things, help seniors stay healthy longer, provide senior-friendly communities that include local age-specific information hubs, and connect seniors and caregivers to appropriate programs and services.
The photo exhibit is on display today until 9 p.m. on the lower level of Upper Canada Mall, in the rotunda near Hudson’s Bay. After that, the portraits will be available for viewing Oct. 2 to Oct. 5 in the Great Hall at the York Region Administrative Centre, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. The centre is at 17250 Yonge St.