in age, but they must lead healthy lives, an expert has warned.

Speaking at yesterday's International Year of the Older Person luncheon at the Southampton Princess, gerontologist Michael Mintzer encouraged Bermudians to use those ties to make seniors' lives even better.

"From what I have learned about Bermuda,'' Dr. Mintzer said, "what is great it is a community with enormous social ties. People are very connected to their families and their community.'' He added: "That is something that other countries do not have. And I would strengthen those ties for the aging.

Dr. Mintzer was a last minute replacement to speak at the luncheon, which saw welcoming remarks by Governor Thorold Masefield, Health Minister Nelson Bascome, and Development Minister Terry Lister.

He is a University of Miami gerontology professor and a Veterans Hospital administrator with a specialisation in aging.

Dr. Mintzer said the main focus of the World Health Organisation's "Active Aging'' campaign is to help people "maintain, regain, or increase'' their capacity for living.

He said the population of Bermudians over 65 will rise from nine percent in 1991 to 11 percent next year, or more than 6,500 people.

Dr. Mintzer said no single factor was responsible for the increase in the number of seniors worldwide, but said public health campaigns, and preventive measures and treatments have had their effect.

"The International Year gives us the perfect opportunity to get away from the ordinary and inject an element of fun and celebration in the public health campaign for active aging,'' he added.

Former politician and active senior citizen Sir John Plowman, chairman of the IYOP committee, said the purpose of the year's activities was to increase the role of seniors in the community and show support for them as they age.

"We want to make Bermuda a society for all ages,'' he said. "Everyone of us must be responsive to the aging population. But we must be prepared to share the knowledge we have gained.'' Mr. Masefield said: "It is you who have made Bermuda that others have inherited. We thank you for it.'' Communicating: Gerontologist Michael Mintzer and International Year of Older Persons chairman Sir John Plowman share a word before yesterday's senior citizens luncheon.