South Australia's Week of Ageing Well begins on 1 October every year and is a celebration of living and ageing well.
This year’s theme promotes Building Age-Friendly, Connected Communities, with a call to action for everyone to build connection every day. The theme highlights the roles we all play in supporting each other to reduce social isolation and loneliness.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) Commission on Social Connection released its global report in June 2025, revealing that stronger social connections can improve well-being, reduce preventable deaths, boost economic resilience and build healthier communities.
You might be shocked to learn that one in six people worldwide experience loneliness. Just because someone turns up to work or has a family doesn’t mean they’re not isolated. You are not alone if you, too, are feeling disconnected.
Small actions can make a big difference. During this year’s Week of Ageing Well from 1 to 7 October, take part in the Connection Challenge by taking small actions every day:
- Touch base with a friend or invite someone new for a coffee or walk, or write a short note or card to someone you miss
- check in with a neighbour
- check out the Week of Ageing Well event calendar (external site) (external site) and attend an event
- bring someone new along to a local event
- join or revisit a local group, class or activity
- plan your own event for the Week of Ageing Well.
These moments of connection help strengthen the social fabric of our communities and help us all to be seen and valued at any age.
Find out more about the Week of Ageing Well or register your own event here: South Australia's Week of Ageing Well | DHS (external site) (external site).