“This programme is about empowering our older population with the knowledge, confidence, and connections they need to remain independent and engaged within their communities,” according to Marie Alexander, HSE Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP) Operational Lead, Mayo, speaking at a recent HSE Age Strong, Live Long Islands event.
Held simultaneously on Clare Island, Inishturk, Inis Meáin, and Inishbofin, the HSE-led initiative focused on promoting healthy ageing, community wellbeing, and social connection for older people living in rural and island communities.
Successfully delivered across the four offshore island communities, the programme was delivered with support from partner organisations including University of Galway, National Broadband Ireland (NBI), RISE, and local community stakeholders.
Marie continued to outline how they were “particularly grateful to University of Galway for their technical support and to National Broadband Ireland for their sponsorship, which helped make this important event possible. Their support ensured that vital information and services reached our island communities across Mayo and Galway.”
The programme included information stands, round table discussions, panel discussions with expert speakers, and opportunities for island residents to engage directly with HSE Health and Wellbeing services and partner organisations. Islanders also had the option to participate online, supporting accessibility across all participating locations.
Attendees received guidance and support in areas including healthy ageing and preventative healthcare, nutrition, mobility, and physical wellbeing. It also focused on home safety and independent living supports, digital inclusion and community connectivity.
Reflecting on his experience, Clare Island resident, Chris O’Grady, said it was “wonderful to have so many services and supports brought directly to the island. The event gave people an opportunity to ask questions, learn new information, and connect with others in the community. I especially enjoyed the discussions around healthy ageing and wellbeing, and it was good to know there are supports available to help people stay active, independent, and connected, while continuing to live on the islands we call home.”
Dr Ian Mc Cabe, Health Innovation Via Engineering (HIVE) Lab Manager at the University of Galway, outlined their delight in supporting the event which he explained allowed them to “contribute to a programme that places such a strong emphasis on equity, accessibility, and healthy ageing in rural and island communities. We look forward to continuing to work with the ICPOP services on the Islands of Galway and Mayo in the future.”
David McCourt, NBI, and founder of RISE Global Foundation, noted how “together with our corporate donors, RISE was delighted to support the HSE-led programme of work delivering vital healthcare services across Ireland’s offshore islands and rural communities. Delivering advanced healthcare supports in these locations can be challenging for both residents and healthcare providers, and we were proud to support the initiative, which demonstrated practical, community-focused solutions empowered by technology that can make a real difference in people’s lives.”
The HSE-led event demonstrated a strong shared commitment between the HSE, healthcare providers, community organisations, and island residents to supporting positive ageing, prevention, and inclusion across Ireland’s offshore communities.