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Purpose and connection: WA Seniors Week 2025
Posted 7 Nov 2025
“There are three things that are important for our senior years: 1) keep your brain active, 2) socialise – we are not meant to be isolated islands! 3) a bit of physical activity.” – Nigel, U3A Perth
This WA Seniors Week (9–16 November 2025) we’re celebrating the vibrant lives and contributions of older Western Australians.
Through our Partner network, we heard from seniors what supports their mental health and wellbeing.
Their reflections capture the essence of the Act Belong Commit message: Keeping active, staying socially connected, and doing things that bring purpose and joy.
Staying active and engaged
Staying active – mentally and physically – is key to wellbeing. Seniors shared how learning new skills, joining clubs, or enjoying the outdoors keeps them engaged and confident.
Many spoke about the joy of trying something new.
Ann from U3A Naturaliste says, “I’m engaging in activities that I’d not had the opportunity when younger and working.”
Diane from Bunbury Women’s Club encourages others to “Find a group that really interests you, preferably allowing you to learn something new. Take the plunge. Be brave!”
For others, being in nature provides both energy and calm.
Nigel from U3A Perth explains, “Appreciate nature and the ocean. A dip in the sea is wonderful!”
Bob, a Masters Athletics member for almost 50 years, continues to find fulfilment in staying active at 84: “I’m still able to be involved. There’s a sense of wellbeing when an event is completed.”
Bob running for Masters Athletics in 1988 and 2024
Connection and companionship
For many older Western Australians, being part of a group provides more than something to do – it offers friendship and a sense of belonging.
“I enjoy the feeling of camaraderie with women from diverse backgrounds” says Diane from Bunbury Women’s Club. Alison adds:
“It’s a great network of like-minded people, there are lots of different activities, and I am learning new skills to keep my brain active.”
At U3A Naturaliste, Jan sums it up: “Interacting with others is most important. The laughter and knowledge shared all add to expanding myself as a person.”
Dellas agrees: “You socialise with others who have the same joys and challenges, the same highs and lows, so it makes you feel less isolated.”
Together, these stories show that connection isn’t just about keeping busy – it’s what helps people thrive.
Purpose and giving back
Whether it’s through volunteering, taking on small roles within their clubs, or sharing simple moments of kindness, these activities bring a sense of meaning to people’s lives.
Nigel from U3A Perth says:
“I’ve taken on a number of roles over the years. Volunteering gives me purpose and satisfaction.”
Patricia from Bunbury Women’s Club shares, “We all have stories to tell and experiences that may help others” while Ineke adds, “Spending time with people from all walks of life is enjoyable for me, particularly when I am able to make a positive difference to someone else’s day.”
Helping others often helps us too. That sense of being needed and useful is vital for wellbeing – at every stage of life.
We thank members of Bunbury Women’s Club, Masters Athletics Western Australia, U3A Naturaliste and U3A Perth for sharing their stories.