New strategy aims to make Cork county ‘a great place to grow old in’

Finnian Cox

The Mayor of County Cork, Cllr Joe Carroll, has launched the Cork County Age Friendly Strategy, which aims to improve the living experience of Cork’s elderly.

An age friendly place is described as somewhere that older people can comfortably stay in and contribute to their communities while leading active and healthy lives.

Running from 2024-2028, the strategy would create structure for cooperation between different agencies, which will be essential to deliver the goal.

Prepared by the Cork County Age Friendly Alliance and the Older Person’s Council, the strategy has 9 goals across transportation, health services, housing, civic and social participation, island communities, inclusion, and employment.

Mayor Carroll described the important role of older people in the community, saying that Cork is “built on the experience of our older residents”.

“Through community involvement and volunteering, by working and being active members of our business community, the essence of what makes our county a great place to live is built on their efforts,” said Mayor Carroll.

“There have been many beneficial initiatives and developments undertaken across the county, resulting in improved quality of life of our older citizens and I look forward to the impact this new strategy will have.”

The strategy was also welcomed by Chair of Cork County Older People’s Council, Liz Downes, who said it was an opportunity to create a more cohesive society for people of all ages.

Downes also described older people as key to the process, as “their voice is at the heart of the Age Friendly design in every town, village, and community in Cork County.”

“The Cork County Older People’s Council will ensure that older people are valued and appreciated and that they are listened to,” said Liz Downes.