Carrie Benn
Head of Fundraising and Communications, Age Action Ireland
The estimated population of Ireland in 2024 included more than 1 million people aged 60 or older, which means building an inclusive and age-positive society in Ireland is vital.
The lives of older people in Ireland are far better now than they were 100 or 50 years ago. Globally, people are living longer, healthier lives and can look forward to many years of active older age — something to be celebrated. Yet, despite positive progress for older people, profound inequalities around ageing remain.
Ageism limits healthy ageing
Most Irish people will be healthy and active well into their 70s and 80s. However, many face barriers that can limit our ability to age well and independently. Age is one of the first things we notice about other people, but most don’t realise the things they say or think are ageist. Ageism, like any kind of discrimination, can happen in big, obvious ways and in smaller, day-to-day interactions.
Positive Ageing Week 2025
Positive Ageing Week is an Age Action initiative to promote the contribution older people make to our families, workplaces and society. From 29 September to 3 October, we will celebrate the vital contributions older people make to society. Older people play an integral part in strengthening the social fabric of our communities — as workers, carers, volunteers, activists and connectors. Their contributions are vital in fostering a strong sense of belonging across generations.
Ageism, like any kind of discrimination,
can happen in big, obvious ways and
in smaller, day-to-day interactions.
Take action today for YOUR tomorrow
Age Action’s work has tackled inequality in ageing for over 30 years. As we get older, staying connected remains just as important. Ageing doesn’t stop us from forming or keeping relationships, but certain aspects of later life, like retirement or changing health, can bring both new possibilities and new challenges. This year, we are delighted to launch a new campaign around sharing time with people of different ages with our ‘Time For Tea’ campaign.
By hosting a Time For Tea coffee morning, you can connect with friends and colleagues while celebrating and supporting older people. Sharing and connecting in today’s digital age is vital for everyone’s health. Take action today for YOUR tomorrow and host an intergenerational event this Positive Ageing Week.
Find out more at www.ageaction.ie
