HSE Age Strong, Live Long Islands Event to Support Positive Ageing Across Mayo and Galway Islands

Communities across Mayo and Galway’s islands are set to benefit from the upcoming HSE Age Strong, Live Long Islands Event, a dedicated community wellbeing initiative taking place on 14th May 2026 across Clare Island, Inishturk, Inis Meáin, and Inishbofin.

Designed for people aged over 55, carers, and community members seeking practical supports, the event will also welcome professionals and service providers working in older persons, disability, community health, and social support. The initiative aims to strengthen local connections, share knowledge, and promote positive ageing across island communities. 

Event Locations:

• Clare Island: Clare Island Community Centre
• Inishturk: National School
• Inis Meáin: Halla, Community Centre
• Inishbofin: Hall, Community Centre

Anyone living on these islands are welcomed to attend the in-person event. Any islanders wishing to join online can do so by clicking: https://clareisland.webex.com/clareisland/j.php?MTID=ma37426d18532b0f0f432928956fe33c3 from 13:20pm on the 14th May.

Event Schedule (All Locations):

• 12:30pm – Doors open; opportunity to meet service providers and visit information stalls
• 1:30pm – Round table discussion
• 2:00pm – Comfort break (tea/coffee)
• 2:15pm – Panel discussion with expert speakers
• 3:30pm – Closing remarks
• 3:40pm – Event concludes

The HSE Age Strong, Live Long Islands Event will bring together health professionals, community organisations, and local services to provide practical information, demonstrations, and resources that support older adults to live healthier, safer, and more connected lives. Through interactive stalls, expert advice, and hands-on activities, attendees will gain access to supports that help them remain active, independent, and socially engaged.

Participants will have opportunities to:

• Learn from health and wellbeing professionals about staying active, preventing illness, and managing age-related changes.
• Discover local services including healthcare providers, safety initiatives, and social groups.
• Receive personalised guidance on nutrition, mobility, home safety, digital skills, and community resources.
• Connect with others, helping to reduce isolation and strengthen local networks.
• Access a wide range of information in one place, making it easier to navigate available supports.

Marie Alexander, HSE Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP) Operational Lead, Mayo, highlighted the importance of this ICPOP Lead initiative, “This programme is about empowering our older population with the knowledge, confidence and connections they need to remain independent and engaged within their communities. We are particularly grateful to University of Galway for the technical support and to National Broadband Ireland (NBI) for their generous sponsorship, which has helped make this important event possible. Their support ensures that vital information and services can reach our island communities and strengthen the wellbeing of people across Mayo and Galway.”

The event reflects a strong commitment to positive ageing, prevention, and community inclusion, ensuring that older adults living on our offshore islands have equitable access to information and supports.