Celebrating International Day of Older Persons with Community Momentum
In a vibrant mark 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 engaging celebration of healthy ageing and community wellbeing brought together residents, volunteers, and local organisations to showcase practical ways to stay active, informed, and independent as we age.
Collaborative Leadership behind the Event
The event was a collaborative initiative between the HSE Integrated Care Programme for Older People (ICPOP), Health Promotion, and Muintir na Tíre. Local shops and businesses generously sponsored the day, providing food, refreshments, and raffle prizes that helped create a welcoming, festive atmosphere while underscoring the importance of community support in healthy ageing.
A Diverse Range of Stalls and Activities
Attendees had access to 15 engaging stalls dedicated to practical health information and services. Visitors could receive health checks, learn about local services, and participate in interactive activities designed to help older adults live well and stay active. Flu vaccinations were offered on-site, aligning with public health priorities to protect communities during the autumn season. The stalls also featured resources on nutrition, mobility, social connectivity, and mental wellbeing, all critical components of a holistic approach to ageing well.
Voices from the Organisers
One of the organisers, Marie Alexander, ICPOP Operational Lead for Mayo, highlighted the event’s core purpose. “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,” she said. She added that the day embodies a growing commitment to integrated care and community-based health promotion, aimed at helping older people “live independently and with dignity.”
Positive Feedback from Attendees
Attendees praised the event for its organisation, atmosphere, and impact. One participant commented, “Thoroughly enjoyed it, very informative, well done – wouldn’t change a thing.” Another attendee noted the value of the day, saying, “Excellent venue, very impressed with the young people involved. I learned lots of important information, had my ears checked and got my flu jab, it was an excellent day!” A further visitor described the day as “amazing” and appreciated the array of stands, the welcoming venue, and the opportunity to learn more about staying healthy as we age.
Looking Ahead: How to Get Involved
The success of this year’s event signals a strong appetite for ongoing community health initiatives. To get involved in future programmes or to learn about local services that support healthy ageing, interested individuals can contact Marie Alexander. She can be reached at 087-1216484 or via email at marie.alexander2@hse.ie. The collaborative model demonstrated at Breaffy highlights how health agencies, community groups, and local businesses can work together to empower older adults to age healthily with dignity and independence.
Conclusion: A Model for Community-led Healthy Ageing
By bringing together men and women, families, health professionals, and volunteers, the Age Strong, Live Long event encapsulated the goals of healthy ageing: prevention, education, connection, and practical support. As communities around Mayo and beyond consider similar initiatives, this event provides a practical blueprint for empowering older adults through accessible services, social engagement, and locally driven health promotion.
