Ardee Parish Centre to Host 2024 Louth County Council ‘Age Friendly Expo’
Ardee News and Sport — The Ardee Parish Centre will host this year’s highly anticipated ‘Age Friendly Expo’ on Wednesday, October 2, 2024, as part of Louth County Council’s efforts to promote positive ageing and support older residents in the region. The free event, themed “Ageing Well at Home”, will run from 10am and is open to everyone aged 55 and over from County Louth and surrounding areas.
The Expo will feature expert speakers offering advice on various aspects of healthy ageing, including maintaining social connections, staying physically active, proper diet and hydration, and information on the Age Friendly Healthy Homes programme. Information stands will showcase local groups, organisations, and services available to support older people in the community.
Gavin Duffy, the well-known entrepreneur from RTE’s Dragon’s Den and Louth Age Friendly Ambassador, will officially launch the event, followed by a series of presentations on ageing well in County Louth. Attendees can enjoy complimentary refreshments and take part in fun activities such as the “Spin the Wheel” game.
Joe Grogan, Chairperson of the Louth Older People’s Council, expressed excitement for the event, saying, “Last year’s Expo was a great success with nearly 200 attendees, and we hope to see even more people join us this year.” Age Friendly Louth Program Manager Sinead McVerry highlighted the importance of the event, stating, “It’s a valuable opportunity for older people and community groups to learn, share experiences, and address the issue of Ageing Well in County Louth.”
Free parking and accessible facilities will be available, and a free bus service from Dundalk and Drogheda will depart at 9:30am. Booking is essential for both the event and the bus. To reserve a spot, contact agefriendly@louthcoco.ie or phone 042 9324389.
The Age Friendly Ireland Shared Service supports cities, counties and towns across Ireland to prepare for the rapid ageing of our population by paying increased attention to the environmental, economic and social factors that influence the health and well-being of older adults. Local Age-friendly programmes work to provide walkable streets, housing and transportation options, access to key services and opportunities for older people to participate in community activities. By doing so, these communities are better equipped to become great places, and were appropriate lifelong homes, for people of all ages.