Council Celebrates Positive Ageing in the District

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council alongside the Public Health Agency, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, County Down Rural Community Network, Volunteer Now and members of the Down Senior Forum came together to support the district’s older residents by hosting a Positive Aging Expo in Downpatrick Leisure Centre. The event was designed to mirror the successful and long running annual Positive Ageing Event.

The purpose of the event was to raise awareness of the services available across the district for older residents. It provided event attendees the opportunity to enjoy fun activities and demonstrations, whilst having a cuppa and a chat. Refreshments and lunch were provided for the 120 people that attended. The Council partnered with 25 community and voluntary organisations who attended the event to provide information stands, health and hearing checks, and the opportunity to participate in physical activity taster sessions including Line Dancing, Pilates and Strength and Balance.

The event was an opportunity to recognise, highlight, celebrate and promote the many positive aspects of growing old and the very valuable contribution that the over 50s continue to make within our community.

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor David Lee-Surginor officially opened the Positive Aging Expo with an opening speech, alongside Danny Sinclair, Head of Health Improvement at the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, and Alannah Brennan the Council’s Health Inequalities Officer. 

Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Deputy Chairperson, Councillor David Lee-Surginor said, “Today is testament to our ongoing commitment to celebrating and supporting our older residents. Events like today are part of a broader effort to provide older people with opportunities to engage in activities and services that support their well-being and social inclusion. We and our partners are committed to fostering an age-friendly community where older residents are celebrated and supported in a place where they can flourish as they age, and lead healthy, active and engaged lives.”

For more information on Newry, Mourne and Down District Council’s Age Friendly Strategy and Action Plan, please visit our website www.newrymournedown.org/health-and-wellbeing or contact Tara Smyth our Age Friendly Coordinator via email Tara.smyth@nmandd.org.