On Wednesday, October 7, a hundred elderly residents of Mayotte gathered at the Mangrove parking lot near the Dembéni Post Office as part of Blue Week, a national event dedicated to retirees and the elderly. Organized by the Dembéni Municipal Action Center (CCAS) and the FMAPAR, the event aimed to bring together different generations through intergenerational meetings, health prevention initiatives, and discussions about access to rights. The theme for this year was "Linking all ages in committed territories," emphasizing the importance of social connections and community support for seniors. Mayotte, a French overseas department in the Indian Ocean, is known for its relatively young population. According to the 2017 Insee census, only about 4% of Mayotte's residents were aged 60 or older, compared to six times that proportion in Metropolitan France. Despite their smaller numbers, the needs of the elderly remain a significant concern for local authorities, particularly regarding health and autonomy. A 2023 Insee study revealed that around 1,000 seniors in Mayotte, or 7% of the over-60 population, were experiencing a loss of autonomy in 2021. All of these individuals lived at home at the time of the survey, highlighting the need for accessible support and daily assistance. These findings reinforce the importance of prevention efforts and the development of services tailored to the elderly. Asna Abasse, deputy mayor of Dembéni and vice president of the CCAS, emphasized the role of Blue Week in integrating the elderly into the community. She noted the vital role grandparents and parents play in shaping future generations and highlighted the need to inform seniors about available services, including those provided by the Department and the Social Security system. Abasse also mentioned that many elderly people expressed a desire for activities such as hikes or fitness classes, showing their interest in maintaining their health. Moinaecha from the Departmental Union UDSSFM added that the event helps young people connect with their elders, ensuring that the wisdom and experiences of previous generations are not forgotten.