With 15.2 per cent of Australia’s population aged over 65 years[1], there are decades of experience and skills on offer from older Australians in our communities.

This year’s International Day of the Older Person theme shines a light on how society can enable and strengthen the contributions of older people in their community and harness their invaluable knowledge and expertise.

First introduced by the United Nations in 1990, International Day of the Older Person honours the contribution and values older generations bring to society.

Seventy-five year old, Hurbet Van Hoof from Ingenia Lifestyle’s Bethania community in Queensland is embracing this year’s International Day of Older Persons theme – Stepping into the Future: Tapping the Talents, Contributions and Participation of Older Persons in Society – eagerly contributing his skills and sharing his many years of industry experience.

When Ingenia Lifestyle Bethania began designing the extension for its community clubhouse extension, it turned to veteran architect and resident Hubert Van Hoof.

Hubert, who has lived in the community for the past five years said he was more than happy to get involved and help design the clubhouse extension to best suit his fellow residents.

“My inspiration for becoming an architect stemmed from my two grandfathers, one was an artist and one was an architect. With a passion for both fields it was a blessing that becoming an architect actually combines both professions,” Mr Van Hoof said.

“In my career as an architect I have been fortunate to have a great deal of experience in designing facilities specifically for older people, including three senior citizen centres, an aged care hostel and units for the aged in country areas.

With more than four decades of experience in the architecture industry, Hubert offer’s invaluable insights into the new design and functionality of the extension.

“The clubhouse extension will help cater to our growing community with additional spaces for residents to relax and socialise.

“We have included additional event and private function spaces where residents are able to hold functions without impacting the use of the clubhouse by other residents.”

[1]http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/[email protected]/Latestproducts/3101.0Main%20Features6Dec%202016?opendocument&tabname=Summary&prodno=3101.0&issue=Dec%202016&num=&view=