08-05-2025
Calls for more people to join Older People's Councils in Ireland
A convention focusing on the needs of older people has heard calls for more people to join the country's Older People's Councils.
Over 200 older people from across Ireland are gathering in Tallaght, Co Dublin for the 2025 Age Friendly Ireland National Older People's Councils (OPCs) Convention.
Speaking to RTÉ, Catherine McGuigan, Chief Executive of Age Friendly Ireland said our rapidly aging population requires planning - not just for today's older people, but tomorrows.
"We have 31 Older People's Councils across the country, and they represent the diverse and authentic voice of older people," she said explaining that they are seeking new members.
"You're in at the ground level, voicing your opinions, stating what your needs are," said Mary McMahon, chairperson of Tipperary Older People's Council.
The 31 county-based councils look at ways to make life better for older people, whether inside their homes or outside.
Patrick Hyland, chair of Limerick's Older People Council says small things make a big difference.
"We have issues in Limerick with parking cars, the green man not been up long enough for people to cross the road, uneven footpaths, bad patios."
Mr Hyland said the council advocates for basic respect. "We follow the GAA motto, give respect and get respect."
Some of the participants were carrying out an audit today of the walkability of local amenities like Tallaght Stadium.
"Walking around literally and pointing out what would be of help to older people," explained Mary Lyons of South Dublin Older People's Council.
"One example I can give you is park seats with arms on them, so people can set down and stand up with greater ease."
These issues will be brought to South Dublin County Council who are working closely with Mary's group.
Moving from family homes to appropriate housing is a key issue for older people. Catherine McGuigan said given the sensitivity, it was important to avoid "ageist" terminology.
"We call it right-sizing," she said, adding that the World Health Organization ageism clearly set out how damaging negative language can be. "We use right-sizing, or ageing in place, not downsizing, which denotes something less."
Professor Rónán Collins, a geriatric specialist and director of stroke services at Tallaght University Hospital told RTÉ that elder abuse and crime needed more attention.
"It saddens me as a geriatrician to see some particularly vicious crimes committed against older people living in isolated areas."
He said the law in this area should be strengthened. "Maybe even to make it a special crime with harsher sentencing where older people are attacked in their homes."
Professor Collins told the conference that he is not sure that modern communications and technology benefit older people. "Often it appears people are more isolated because of it." he said.
"People who design software technologies should be made to road-test them on older people first for literacy and intuitive use."
He called on the Government to implement the existing strategies for stroke and dementia.
"The Government needs to stop dragging its heels," he said adding that one in four people are affected by dementia or stroke.
