Mayo project shortlisted for national Age Friendly award
AGE Friendly Mayo and Sláintecare Healthy Committees are finalists for the Age Friendly Active & Healthy Ageing Award at the 2024 National Age Friendly Recognition and Achievement Awards.
Their innovative ‘Valentine’s Vitality’ Project, based in Mayo, is shortlisted for its exceptional contribution to making Ireland an outstanding place to grow older.
Recognised by Age Friendly Ireland, these projects exemplify best practices which are both impactful and can inspire similar efforts across the country.
Curated by Age Friendly Ireland, the annual awards celebrate individuals, organisations and agencies nationwide that are spearheading initiatives to improve the lives of older adults in Ireland. The awards ceremony will take place on November 7 at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Santry, hosted by Fingal County Council.
Catherine McGuigan, chief officer of the Age Friendly Ireland Shared Service, said: “The shortlisted projects represent the gold standard of innovation and dedication, showcasing how communities are coming together to improve the quality of life for older adults across Ireland. These initiatives stand out not only for their immediate impact but also for their potential to be replicated across the country.”
Commenting on the nomination, Mayo County Council said: “We are proud to be shortlisted for the National Age Friendly Awards in the Health and Wellbeing category.
“The Valentine’s Vitality information morning was a unique collaboration between Age Friendly Mayo, Sláintecare Healthy Communities, various departments within Mayo County Council, statutory and voluntary service providers. The overall aim of the event was to empower individuals aged 55 plus to take control of their health and wellbeing by showcasing the diversity of services available with all being free at point of contact.
“By sharing resources and working together, we were able to maximize the impact of the event, offering essential information in brain health, nutrition, Age Friendly homes, Slaintecare Healthy communities programmes, library services digital and in person, arts and culture programmes.
“Throughout the event there were practical demonstrations and opportunities to engage with local services through information stands. This collaboration fostered self-empowerment and supported independent living, demonstrating that partnerships and shared resources have a powerful, positive effect.”
Following the success of the collaboration, this initiative will now be delivered annually and will be enhanced by working on attracting a broader demographic to include specific services that target men for 2025.