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This year, from September 30th to October 6th, Galway is shining a spotlight on 27 remarkable individuals from across the City and County who exemplify the positive aspects of ageing. These individuals, through their quiet yet impactful contributions, continuously enhance our lives, neighbourhoods, and communities.  

Councillor Albert Dolan, Cathaoirleach of County of Galway said, "Positive Ageing Week provides an annual opportunity to highlight the positive aspects of ageing and to celebrate the invaluable contributions of older individuals in our communities. The theme for Positive Ageing Week 2024 is "Challenging Ageism: Reframing How We Think, Feel, and Act Towards Ageing and Older Persons."  

The centrepiece of this celebration is the Local Heroes Exhibition, which will be launched at Galway City Museum on October 1st. Following its launch, the exhibition will travel to various libraries and other locations across the City and County, showcasing these 27 inspiring people who epitomize positive, healthy, and active ageing, representing the countless others we recognize in our parents, siblings, relatives, neighbours, community volunteers, carers, and friends who enrich our lives in countless ways.  

Research tells us that our ageing journey can be impacted by what we see and hear about ageing. Liam Conneally, Chief Executive with Galway County Council and Joint Chairperson of Galway Age Friendly Alliance, emphasises this point by stating: “It is so important to shine a light on older people who are living life to the full and are so often valuable members of clubs, associations, community groups, or family carers, and enriching our lives so much - they represent the many older people who enrich our lives in so many ways.”      

The Local Heroes Exhibition is an initiative of the Galway Age Friendly Programme, made possible through the support of Galway City and County Councils, COPE Galway, Galway Rural Development, and Galway City Partnership.

We extend our deepest gratitude to all who sponsored or contributed to this year’s initiatives, and especially the wonderful individuals from across Galway City and County who contribute to our families, communities, and society, inspiring others to do the same.  

For more information on Positive Ageing Week, visit www.copegalway.ie/positiveageingweek.