Positive Ageing Roadshows in Ards and North Down
Age Friendly Ards and North Down, in partnership with local statutory bodies delivered two successful roadshow events in Kircubbin and Newtownards during October’s Positive Ageing Month.
Age Friendly Ards and North Down, in partnership with Ards and North Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), Public Health Agency (PHA) and South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, delivered two successful roadshow events in Kircubbin and Newtownards during October’s Positive Ageing Month.
More than 100 people attended the roadshows that were held in Kircubbin Community Centre on 4 October and Ards Blair Mayne Wellbeing and Leisure Complex on 20 October. They received key advice and information from local agencies in relation to community safety, falls prevention and social participation.
The events also gave attendees the opportunity to engage with almost 40 exhibitors that provide key support services in the Borough. In addition, attendees also had the opportunity to enjoy dancing from community dance practitioner, Anthea McWilliams, and took part in a singalong session with Edelle McMahon, who is one of the Alzheimer’s Society’s Singing for the Brain leaders.
The Mayor of Ards and North Down, Councillor Jennifer Gilmour, said:
“Positive Ageing Month is a celebration of our older people and the value they bring to our community. Our Roadshows were designed to provide advice on issues that are most relevant to our older population such as staying safe and keeping active. We also showcased some of the many opportunities to stay connected through hobbies and groups, demonstrating that Ards and North Down is a great place to live and grow older. It was lovely to see so many people there and I am positive that everyone who attended found them very engaging and informative.”
PCSP Chair, Councillor Alistair Cathcart, said:
“Ards and North Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP) is delighted to support and be involved in these roadshow events. For many older people, crime and the fear of crime can be a major concern, so it is important that steps are taken to support and protect potentially vulnerable people within our local community. Developing initiatives like the Positive Ageing roadshow events can educate and inform people about a range of crime prevention and safety issues such as scams, anti-social behaviour and how people can keep safe within their own homes.”
The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Eddie Lynch said:
“We are living in an ageing population; it is now more important than ever that we fully support older people, ensure their voices are heard and recognise their valuable contribution to society.
“Encouraging older people to stay active, live independently and remain healthier for longer is so important and events like the Positive Ageing Roadshows are a fantastic way to do that – offering a wealth of information on services and help that older people can avail of to help them live fuller, healthier lives.
The Positive Ageing Roadshows were run as part of “Positive Ageing Month”, which is celebrated every year in October, and is a month-long campaign of events and activities that promote positive ageing as well as celebrating the contribution older people make to their communities.