Senior Citizens’ Month 2026 Declared Open
Senior Citizens’ Month 2026 was officially declared open on Friday at an opening ceremony held at New Life Baptist Church, marking the start of the Territory’s month-long programme to celebrate and support older residents. The 37th annual observance, held under the theme “Champion Your Health,” emphasises prevention, personal responsibility and community collaboration, the BVI Government said.
Senior Citizens’ Month 2026 was officially declared open on Friday during an opening ceremony at New Life Baptist Church, marking the start of a month dedicated to celebrating and supporting the Territory’s elderly population, the BVI Government said. This year’s observance marks the 37th anniversary of Senior Citizens’ Month in the Virgin Islands and is being held under the theme “Champion Your Health,” which places emphasis on prevention, personal responsibility and active engagement in maintaining both physical and mental wellbeing, according to the government press release.
Delivering remarks at the ceremony, Minister for Health and Social Development, Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley, underscored the central role of prevention in healthy ageing. He told attendees, "Our theme this year, ‘Champion Your Health,’ reminds us that health is not only something we receive care for, but something we actively protect, nurture, and advocate for throughout our lives.
Championing your health begins with prevention. It means choosing your meals wisely, maintaining regular health screenings, and staying active. It also means understanding your body, recognising changes, and seeking care early." Minister Wheatley also highlighted that supporting seniors is a shared responsibility requiring strong partnerships across government agencies, healthcare providers, social services, non-governmental organisations, families and caregivers. "As we honour you, our golden gems, we also reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure that you are empowered, supported, and equipped to live healthy, fulfilling lives," he said, noting that collaboration is essential to creating environments where seniors are respected and empowered.
Premier of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr Natalio Wheatley, addressed the gathering and encouraged seniors to embrace this stage of life with optimism and confidence. Premier Wheatley said, "Just because you are a senior, it does not mean anyone should place limitations on you.
This is just another stage of life and it can be a stage where you continue to discover the joys of new things. To all our seniors, I wish you a joyful, a healthy, and a blessed Senior Citizens’ Month. May you continue to shine as the golden gems you are, and may God bless our seniors and continue to bless these beautiful Virgin Islands." A full programme of activities has been planned throughout the month to promote wellness, engagement and social connection, including events on the Sister Islands.
The Ministry of Health and Social Development is urging residents to participate, check local schedules and honour the contributions seniors make to family and community life. For further information, the government press release lists contact details for the Ministry: Information Officer I, Ministry of Health and Social Development, telephone (284) 468-4138 and email FRandall@gov.vg.
The release also notes general government services and appointments are available through the Government of the Virgin Islands at (284) 468-3701, and a virtual booking system and WhatsApp contact (1 (284) 468-9760) are available for convenience. International media enquiries may be directed to BVIGovernment@dgagroup.com, the press release stated.
Senior Citizens’ Month provides an opportunity for the Territory to celebrate older residents, promote healthy living and strengthen the network of care that helps seniors remain active and included in community life, the BVI Government added.
Primary source: BVI Government