Former Rose of Tralee leads call on ageing well in Westmeath

Rosemount native, 2022 Rose Of Tralee winner and Westmeath Age Friendly Ambassador, Rachel Duffy, joined fellow Age Friendly Ambassadors from across the country to promote a clear message - emotional, mental and physical health must take centre stage in how Ireland supports and celebrates ageing.

New insights gathered from Age Friendly Ireland’s network of 30 high-profile Ambassadors from the worlds of entertainment, business, sport and public service — including Francis Brennan, Gavin Duffy, Sandy Kelly, Geraldine Plunkett and Celia Holman Lee — reveal that nearly 80% fear cognitive or mental decline more than any other aspect of ageing. When asked what gives them hope, over half pointed to the growing commitment to an inclusive, supportive society that values older people and being able to remain active and independent.

“I think ageing well means that, despite getting older, you are still successful in maintaining connections, friendships, hobbies and staying as active as you can. I feel my role as an Ambassador with Age Friendly Ireland enables people to feel comfortable to engage with me and express their feelings and opinions on ageing.

"I would encourage any older person or even someone who just wants to learn more about ageing well in Ireland to contact their local Age Friendly Programme by contacting their local council," the 2022 Rose of Tralee winner said.

Held at VISUAL Carlow, this year’s Ambassadors’ Day brings together Age Friendly Ambassadors from across the country for a day of discussion, reflection and visibility around the theme 'Wellbeing in Later Life — Physical, Mental and Emotional Health'.

The event shines a light on the lived realities of ageing in Ireland, where the over-65 population is expected to double by 2050, and underscores the need to place dignity, purpose and wellbeing at the heart of national policy, community initiatives and everyday conversations.

Age Friendly Ambassadors are appointed by City and County Councils across Ireland to use their platforms to challenge ageism, champion dignity in ageing, and support more connected, active and inclusive ageing across Ireland.

Age Friendly Ireland is the national body supporting Ireland’s 31 Local Authorities to deliver the Government’s vision of an Age Friendly Ireland. Each local authority leads a dedicated Age Friendly Programme, in partnership with older people, service providers and community stakeholders.

Those wishing to learn more about ageing well in Ireland should contact their local Age Friendly Programme via their local council or visit agefriendlyireland.ie