Overview: A Community Celebration of Healthy Ageing
On Wednesday, October 1, 2025, Breaffy GAA Clubhouse welcomed more than 200 members of the public for the “Age Strong, Live Long” event. Held to celebrate the International Day of Older Persons, the gathering showcased practical ways to support healthy ageing, from preventive health checks to social connection and accessible information about local services. The event was a collaborative effort, bringing together HSE Integrated Care Programme for Older People (ICPOP), Health Promotion, and Muintir na Tíre, with generous sponsorship from local shops and businesses providing food, refreshments and raffle prizes.
What Happened: A Day of Engagement and Health Support
The Breaffy venue became a vibrant hub with 15 stalls offering a range of activities and services designed to help older adults live independently and well. Attendees could receive health checks, flu vaccinations, and ears and hearing checks, while also accessing information on local services and participating in interactive activities that promote physical and mental wellbeing. The mix of practical health services and engaging stations created an atmosphere that was informative yet welcoming, encouraging people to ask questions and explore what community resources are available to them.
Health Checks, Immunisation, and Information
Among the highlights were on-site health checks and flu vaccinations, which provided immediate value for participants and underscored the role of preventive care in healthy ageing. In addition, information stalls offered guidance on staying active, managing chronic conditions, nutrition, and available local supports. The event’s design emphasized accessibility and empowerment, ensuring attendees could leave with actionable steps to support their wellbeing.
Leadership and Vision: A Strong Collaborative Model
Marie Alexander, ICPOP Operational Lead for Mayo and one of the event organizers, spoke about the importance of collaboration. “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. Her comments highlighted how integrated care and community-based health promotion can help older people live independently with dignity.
A Growing Commitment to Integrated Care
The event reflected a broader commitment to integrated care across health and social supports. By coordinating with Health Promotion and Muintir na Tíre, organizers demonstrated how communities can play a proactive role in health outcomes, reinforcing the idea that ageing well is a shared responsibility that extends beyond formal healthcare settings.
Voices from the Community: Attendees Share Feedback
Feedback from attendees was uniformly positive, with people praising both the organization and the warm, inclusive atmosphere. One participant described the day as “thoroughly enjoyed, very informative, well done – wouldn’t change a thing,” while another noted value in combining practical checks with learning opportunities. A third attendee remarked on the impressive coordination and hoped for future events with similar formats. The consensus was clear: the day succeeded in informing, motivating, and connecting people in meaningful ways.
Looking Ahead: How to Get Involved
Organisers encouraged ongoing participation in future initiatives and invited community members to reach out to keep the momentum going. For those interested in collaborating or attending upcoming events, Marie Alexander available at 087-1216484 or via email at marie.alexander2@hse.ie. The event’s enduring message is simple: healthy ageing is best supported through active communities, accessible services, and sustained partnerships across agencies and local groups.
Impact and Next Steps
The successful execution of the Age Strong, Live Long event demonstrates that well-coordinated community health initiatives can have immediate, tangible benefits for older adults. By combining health services with practical information and social connection, the event contributed to a stronger sense of belonging and empowerment within the community. Local partners have reinforced their commitment to delivering integrated care and promoting wellbeing for seniors, with plans to build on this year’s momentum in future programmes.
