‘Events like this matter’ - Free positive ageing event in Laois

Laois TD Willie Aird will host the event in Portlaoise

Published 22nd Sep 2026, 10:00 BST Updated 22nd Sep 2026, 16:35 BST Deputy Willie Aird (right) will host the event in the Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise. Laois TD Willie Aird will host the event in Portlaoise A free event to help older people plan for the future and stay connected will take place in Laois next month.

Laois TD Willie Aird will host the event in The Killeshin Hotel in Portlaoise . It will examine how people and communities in Laois can plan for aging and support older people to remain independent, connected and active.

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The event will take place on Friday, October 16 from 11am until 1pm, with registration from 10.30am.

The event will be chaired by journalist and author Terry Prone, founder of the Communications Clinic and presenter of the new podcast Grey Matters.

The panel will also include Professor Des O'Neill, specialist geriatrician at Tallaght University Hospital, architect Rodd Bond, Nina Carberry MEP, co-chair of the European Alzheimer's Alliance, and Dr Ann Coyle, a former HSE manager and advocate for older people.

Discussions will focus on healthy ageing, remaining well at home for longer, maintaining social and community connections and making Laois more age-friendly for people of all generations.

Deputy Aird said the event would look at planning for ageing both at an individual level and across the county.

“The event will feature a panel of speakers who will share insights on planning for ageing at both a personal level, including health, housing and social connection, and at a county level, looking at how communities, services and local leadership can build on the good work already being done by local organisations,” he said.

Playground, outdoor gym and classroom planned in largest Laois housing estate “The session will also look at the opportunities that come with longer lives and the importance of planning ahead so that people can age with dignity, independence and purpose.”

Dr Coyle, a former regional and national planning specialist for older people, said planning for later life is important for individuals and their families.

“Positive ageing isn't about pretending getting older is easy. It's about recognising that it comes with change and making sure we, and the people we love, have the support, connections and independence to meet that change on our own terms,” she said.

“I've seen what it looks like when that planning happens and what it looks like when it doesn't. That's why events like this matter.”

The event will also consider how local services and initiatives can contribute to creating more age-friendly communities in Laois.

Admission is free and places can be booked online through Ticket Tailor or by contacting Deputy Aird's office on 057 8620232 between 9.30am and 1.30pm.