Supporting the UN Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021–2030 through community participation and inclusion
KARACHI: VCare Social Welfare Society will organise a Healthy Ageing Community Carnival on Tuesday, 27 October 2026, from 3:00 pm to 8:00 pm, bringing together older persons, families, young people, donors and community partners.
Under the message “All Generations Together — Aao Mil Kar Banayein Sehatmand Pakistan,” the carnival aims to promote wellbeing, strengthen relationships between generations and create opportunities for older persons to participate in community life.
Through local action for healthy ageing, VCare aims to support provincial and federal government efforts towards achieving the goals of the United Nations Decade of Healthy Ageing 2021–2030 and the Sustainable Development Goals, helping improve the lives of older persons, their families and communities while ensuring that no one is left behind. Through awareness, participation, intergenerational engagement, research and advocacy, VCare encourages positive attitudes towards ageing and works to build more age-friendly communities.
The carnival will feature health awareness, nutrition guidance, games for mental wellbeing, intergenerational activities, initial Integrated Care for Older People (ICOPE) screening to identify potential declines in physical and mental capacities, and a skills showcase supporting economic participation.
Older women will have an opportunity to showcase their skills and handmade products, connect with potential customers and demonstrate that learning, creativity and meaningful contribution can continue at every age.
Through these activities, VCare aims to reduce social isolation, encourage healthy lifestyles and help families better understand the needs and contributions of older persons. The carnival will also provide a platform for community members and organisations to explore practical ways of supporting older people.
Fatima Khalfan, Founder & Chairperson of VCare Social Welfare Society, emphasised that community development complements the organisation’s residential care services. Dar-ul-Noor Old Age Home and Day Care remain core priorities, while community programmes extend support to older persons living with their families and within their own communities.
The event also aims to introduce potential donors, corporate social responsibility (CSR) teams, volunteers, service partners, government representatives and other stakeholders to VCare’s work. Documenting community needs, participation and follow-up outcomes can strengthen future proposals and create opportunities for partnerships with national and international funding organisations supporting healthy ageing and community development in Pakistan.
VCare intends to build on connections made with collaborators, partners and visitors during the carnival through continued engagement, partnerships and practical support. Its long-term purpose is to strengthen compassionate care and build a community in which older persons feel valued, connected and included.
VCare welcomes donors, families, corporate representatives, community organisations and leaders, government representatives, young people, volunteers and supporters to attend, meet participants and explore how they can contribute.
