Local groups and organisations are being encouraged to support this year’s Positive Ageing Month by planning events and activities geared towards supporting people to age well.
October is the month to celebrate positive ageing, and a full programme of events will be held to highlight the vital contribution older people make to local communities.
This week Derry City & Strabane District Council, alongside the Western Health & Social Care Trust and the Public Health Agency, issued a call out to local groups to see how they can take part in Positive Ageing Month.
Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Lilian Barr, said it was a wonderful opportunity to engage older people in new activities and programmes.
“The reality is that people are living longer, healthier lives and are playing a vital role in local communities which deserves more acknowledgement,” Mayor Barr declared.
“Whether it’s volunteering, or engaging in cultural and social events, there is a greater number of people seeking out things to do and ways to contribute, and we must support that.
“I am appealing to local community groups and other organisations to get involved in Positive Ageing Month and see how everyone can benefit.”
The Western Health and Social Care Trust and Derry City and Strabane District Council are working with the Public Health Agency and Community and Voluntary organisations to develop and promote the programme, as Council’s Age Friendly Co-Ordinator Pauline O’Neill explained.
“The aim of Positive Ageing Month is to offer a wealth of opportunities for citizens aged 50+ years to be included in all aspects of community life across the City and District.
“Locally the Age Friendly Programme aims to encourage the inclusion of older people by increasing participation and access to services and making sure this is an enjoyable place for people to live and grow older in.
“I hope to see local groups taking this opportunity to connect with the older community during Positive Ageing Month.
The closing date for returns is Tuesday 16th July and organisations can send a submission for their event, programme or activity via email to [email protected]
