Thousands expected at first Age Well Expo

THE first dlr Age Well Expo, run in association with the dlr Age Friendly Alliance, will take place on Sunday, June 9.

Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council is also involved in the event in the Pavilion at Leopardstown Racecourse that aims to celebrate and showcase services and products available to older people in the county.

Entry is free of charge and there will be feature appearances from legendary rally driver Rosemary Smith and author, poet, and TV presenter, Christy Kenneally.

 The dlr Age Well Expo will also provide an opportunity to connect, engage and hear about topics of interest, particularly around the subjects of participation, health and security which were identified in the comprehensive Dún Laoghaire Rathdown Age Friendly Strategy 2016-2020.

Up to 1,000 delegates are expected to attend the event which will run from 11.30am to 5pm on the day that consists of a large and diverse exhibition space, seminars and presentations along with a networking and café area. 

 “The real challenge for us nationally and as a local community is to change the view of ageing,” said Eugene Magee, Chair of dlr Age Friendly Alliance.

“We must emphasise the many positives and help to create an environment that will enable older peo-ple to realise their value in a changed society.”

Organisers point out that the world’s population is getting older, with many of us living longer and healthier lives and experiencing older age very differently from our grandparent’s generation.

By 2036, the over 65s will increase by 250 per cent. By 2041, the over 80s will increase by 400 per cent. And by 2060, one in three Europeans is expected to be over 65.

 The preliminary results of the Healthy and Positive Ageing Initiative (HaPAI) survey for Dún Laoghaire Rathdown showed how a majority of respondents liked the neighbourhood in which they lived and felt safe at home or out and about during the day.

Another 82 per cent expressed satisfaction with the opportunities for recreation in the area.

“Clearly we have many positives on which to build as we commence the implementation stage of the strategy,” Mr Magee added.

 “Our aim is to make  Dún Laoghaire Rathdown a great county in which to grow older,” Philomena Poole, Chief Executive, of Dún Laoghaire Rathdown County Council stated.

“This about showcasing that and giving older people and their families a sense of everything that is available when you live in a county with endless possibilities.”