Images: Valerie O’Sullivan
WITH a real spring in their step, dozens of active retired men and women from Killarney this Wednesday joined their peers from throughout Kerry and Cork to descend on the Gleneagle Hotel for an informative seminar organised by Age Action Ireland in association with various care agencies.
The event was part of the Marigold Festival Series which celebrates healthy and active ageing and offers practical ideas and projects to help the retired to stay positive, remain active and enjoy life.
In addition to a number of informative talks, the day-long event featured a range of trade stands, information points and mini workshops with the focus very much on health and wellbeing for older persons.
The keynote speaker on the day was the former Governor of Mountjoy Prison, John Lonergan, was outlined what active retirement means to him.
After a 42-year career in the prison service, he provided a fascinating insight into his life and experiences and told how he put his spare time to good use by penning a big-selling autobiography.
Another keynote address was delivered by Dr Sabina Brennan of Trinity College Dublin who spoke about the importance of maintaining a healthy and active mind.
Meanwhile, Age Action Ireland has just launched a nationwide campaign to protect the free travel pass for older people.
The scheme is currently being reviewed but Age Action is vehemently against any negative changes, given the role it plays in enabling older people to live with dignity and independence.
Retired people in Killarney have been urged to support the campaign by lobbying their local TDs, senators and councillors on the issue.
