The 14th Positive Ageing Week was launched this morning by celebrity hotelier, Francis Brennan, who hosted a ‘Senior Safari’ in Dublin Zoo. The event takes place from 26 September to 2 October and is supported by Bank of Ireland.
Justin Moran, Head of Advocacy and Communications with Age Action, said: “Right across the country it’s often older people who are the glue that keeps communities together, active in local residents associations, raising money for local charities or simply passing on the benefit of their experience in local sports clubs.
“Positive Ageing Week is about challenging the image of older people as having nothing more to offer and celebrating everything they contribute so why not get together and organise your own Positive Ageing Week event?
“There are already loads of events planned with dancing, football blitzes and aqua aerobics for those with energy to burn and for those taking a more relaxed approach, coffee mornings, bingo and mystery tours and cinema trips.”
Digi Hour
As a part of the week long events Bank of Ireland in conjunction with Age Action will champion Digi Hour, a new initiative to encourage older people to get online.
Speaking about the initiative, Antoinette Golden, Head of Seniors Banking said: “On Thursday, 29 September at 8pm we are urging everyone to reach out to a friend, neighbour or family member and show them just one of the benefits of getting online.
“Tell your mum why Instagram is so great or show your uncle how to Skype your cousin in Australia. We’re delighted to support Positive Ageing Week which is a fantastic nationwide initiative.”
A constantly updated list of events is available where organisers can also register their own event.