Overview: A community rally for healthy ageing
In a vibrant celebration of International Day of Older Persons 2025, more than 200 members of the public gathered at the Breaffy GAA Clubhouse on Wednesday, October 1, for the “Age Strong, Live Long” event. This lively gathering highlighted the importance of healthy ageing and community wellbeing, bringing together residents, caregivers, and local services for a day focused on living well as we age.
Collaborative roots and generous support
The event was a collaborative initiative led by the HSE Integrated Care Programme for Older People (ICPOP) in partnership with Health Promotion and Muintir na Tíre. Local shops and businesses showed their support through food, refreshments, and raffle prizes, underscoring the strong sense of community that underpins successful health promotion efforts in Mayo.
What attendees experienced
The venue hosted 15 stalls designed to engage and inform older adults about staying active, improving health, and accessing local services. Participants could receive health checks, take part in interactive activities, and learn about resources available to support independent living and dignified ageing. Flu vaccinations were available for eligible attendees, alongside information desks that connected people with community supports, care options, and wellness programs.
Health services at a glance
Visitors had opportunities to:
- Receive health checks tailored to older adults, including blood pressure and lifestyle assessments.
- Ask healthcare professionals about preventive care and chronic disease management.
- Get information on local services aimed at enabling independent living and social engagement.
- Access flu vaccinations and education on infection prevention.
Voices from the day
One of the event organizers, Marie Alexander, ICPOP Operational Lead for Mayo, spoke about the day’s significance: “This event was a testament to the power of collaboration and the strength of our local networks. We are proud to have brought together so many people to share knowledge, build connections, and promote healthy ageing in a meaningful way.”
Alexander continued, explaining that the gathering reflects a growing commitment to integrated care and community-based health promotion. The aim is to support older people in living independently and with dignity, a cornerstone of the region’s approach to ageing well.
Impact and feedback
Attendees praised the event for its organization, atmosphere, and tangible impact. Comments captured the day’s value, with participants noting the informative sessions, hands-on activities, and the opportunity to receive practical health services on-site. Requests for future events suggested a strong interest in ongoing community-driven health promotion and peer support networks.
Looking ahead: opportunities to get involved
To sustain momentum, the organizers invited further participation from the public and local groups. Anyone interested in contributing to future initiatives can reach out to Marie Alexander at 087-1216484 or via email at marie.alexander2@hse.ie. The message from the day is clear: healthy ageing is a collective endeavour, supported by information, access to services, and the power of community networks.
Why this matters
Events like “Age Strong, Live Long” play a crucial role in promoting preventative care and social inclusion for older adults. By combining health services with education and community engagement, Mayo demonstrates how integrated care models can enhance quality of life and help people age with independence and dignity.
