Positive Ageing in County Cork – Celebrating International Day of Older People and Embracing the Autumn with Confidence

September 28^th – October 2^nd marks International Positive Ageing Week and this year the United Nations has decided that the theme of the International Day of Older People on October 1^st, is to focus on the impact of pandemics on how we address age and ageing.

In recognition of this and in the context of its leadership role in the Cork County COVID-19 Community Support Programme, Cork County Council has brought together a range of contributors to share their experiences of life during COVID-19 and to share their advice for looking ahead with positivity and confidence.

“Embracing the Autumn with confidence” captures the heart-warming stories of older people as well as practical advice on available supports from Cork County Council, the HSE, An Garda Síochána and other agencies. Working closely with Cork County Older People’s Council, the Council recognized the need to provide messages of reassurance and confidence to the older and more vulnerable members of our communities.

In the absence of traditional social gatherings and events, Cork County Council has worked with VE Studio Cork to produce a curated series of inspiring interviews and discussions that address the impacts of the pandemic on older people and provide practical advice and information on available supports.

Chief Executive of Cork County Council, Tim Lucey welcomed the initiative and noted that the Council has adapted its service delivery models to ensure service continuity, particularly to those services which impact on older and vulnerable people. “In leading the Cork County COVID-19 Community Support Programme, we have engaged with a range of stakeholders and listened to the voice of older people to ensure that their needs are met throughout this crisis. The Council’s COVID-19 Community Support FREE contact number 1800 805 819  remains operational.”

Opening the webinar, Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr. Mary Linehan Foley welcomed this innovative means of reaching out to older people noting that “Now more than ever, we recognize that older people may be anxious about the future. As County Mayor I encourage you to share this webinar with your family and friends, near and far.”

Contributors such as Dr. Con Murphy, retired medical doctor and well known GAA personality, and Bibi Baskin, wellness advocate and former television presenter, relayed their experiences of the COVID-19 Pandemic alongside representatives of An Garda Siochana, the HSE and Cork County Fire Services providing practical advise and information on available supports. The overarching message to older people is to focus each day on the positives – positive thinking, positive achievements, positive outlook, – these are the key ingredients that will help us all, young and old, to cope with the challenges and uncertainty of the period ahead. Further information on this initiative can be found at www.corkcococo.ie