What’s happening during Positive Ageing Week?

POSITIVE Ageing Week is driven by those who are willing to organise events; it’s as simple as that. Basically, it’s a ‘people driven’ and community based approach which has fronted the growing response to Positive Ageing Week since its inception four years ago.

Many elderly people now take it upon themselves to celebrate the week by arranging their own set of events; a sense of empowerment that has gradually trickled down to the wider community as they look to get involved. Everything from scrabble and knitting parties to Zumba dancing and trips to the Zoo have so far been arranged nationwide and there’s plenty more room for ideas.

Here in Kerry, Baile Mhuire in Balloonagh have arranged a special talk on ‘Ageing with Dignity’ on September 27 at 12pm and this discussion will highlight the many benefits of growing old gracefully.

In Killarney, on October 6, at The Dromhall Hotel, a special ‘Information Day’ also takes place. This event will explain to guests the importance of issues like personal safety, legal matters, home security and personal health. It will also be followed by an exhibition of arts and crafts.

By 2021 there will be 800,000 people over the age of 65 in Ireland. We are an ageing population but we are also a healthier population and many of us can expect to live well into our 80s and 90s.

Homecare in Ireland is a growing market as more people choose to live at home to maintain their independence. Bluebird Care provides care across Kerry and West Cork to people of all ages and of varying degrees of ability.

Director Carly O’Donovan says, “The appeal of Bluebird Care is that we provide a fully tailored person-centred service that puts the customer and their family firmly in the driving seat when it comes to the care we provide, in doing this we can make a real and positive contribution to people’s lives and their daily lived experience.

“People can hesitate when it comes to making vital decisions about care, but there is nothing to fear. In fact our experience shows that it has very positive outcomes and dramatically improves family situations. In providing care to our customers we also aim to provide support and respite to the family or the primary carer.

PROMOTING INDEPENDENT LIVING AT HOME AND IN THE COMMUNITY