As we approach Positive Ageing Week, JACQUIE LYNSKEY reflects on how challenging outdated stereotypes around ageing means that, rather than slowing down, growing older is a time to thrive.
‘Positive Ageing Week gives us an opportunity to reflect on the changing nature of ageing in Ireland. The 27 amazing Local Heroes celebrated in Galway next week are living proof that people in their later years are more vibrant and active than ever before.
Up to the late 1800s average life expectancy worldwide did not exceed 40. In Ireland, by 1950, that number had risen to 66 years. Today, we live on average to almost 83 years, and that number is still climbing. Many people are also experiencing good health and wellbeing well into later life, mainly due to improved living conditions, advances in medical care and a realisation that there are many factors that contribute to a positive ageing experience that are within our control.
We’re also living healthier lives for longer. The World Health Organization now measures Healthy Life Expectancy, or the number of years someone can expect to live in full health. In Ireland, that figure is an impressive 76 years. This means more of us are not only living longer but are doing so in good health, staying active, contributing to our communities, and maintaining our independence well into our senior years.
When I was a child in the 1960s people aged 70 seemed very old! Today, people in their 80s are healthy, spritely, active, and contributing members of their families and communities. For many, 60 really does feel like the new 40!
Approaches to retirement are also also evolving. In 1924, when Ireland introduced the old age pension, life expectancy was 57—many people did not live long enough to collect it. Now, with a life expectancy that stretches roughly 20 years beyond the current retirement age of 65, people want more choice about how they spend those years.
For some, this means staying in the workforce longer. In a time when there is a shortage of skilled workers, our older adults can provide valuable experience and emotional intelligence honed over a lifetime.
The valuable contribution of our older citizens can be seen all around us. They actively contribute to caring roles for both older people and the younger generations, they volunteer regularly in a wide range of important activities, and they are active participants in their local communities.
With age comes a special kind of wisdom. Older adults often understand what matters most in life, paying less attention to trivial concerns and are better able to enjoy life. They bring a wealth of life experience that helps them, and those around them, navigate challenges with clarity.
But as a society, are we fully valuing and supporting our older population? It’s worth asking ourselves a few important questions.
Do we ensure our older citizens have an adequate standard of income to support their health and wellbeing?
Do we adequately support the caring roles undertaken by older people who are looking after spouses and other family member?
Do our older people feel safe in their homes and communities?
Do we ensure our transport systems are suitable to the needs of older travellers?
Do we actually see our older populations for what they really are (healthy, active, contributing ) or do we hold on to outdated and unrealistic images of older age?
Ageing has changed DRAMATICALLY over the past century. While many around us have reached great ages and are living their best lives, the rest of us have some catching up to do! We only have to remind ourselves of our approach to the COVID-19 pandemic to acknowledge that Ageism is a reality and much remains to be done to reshape how we view older age in society.
As we celebrate Positive Ageing Week, let’s take inspiration from the 27 Local Heroes who have shared their stories and shown us just how rich life can be in later years in Ireland. Our communities are enriched by their presence. If we learn to appreciate and support our older citizens more fully, we will all benefit from their contributions. Ageing is no longer about decline; it is about continued growth, engagement, and, for many, a new chapter of opportunity.
Jacquie Lynskey is Head of Senior Support Service, COPE Galway Positive Ageing Week Local Heroes initiative is part of a joint project with COPE Galway, Galway City and County Councils, Galway Rural Development, Galway City Partnership, Age Friendly Galway, and Galway Public Libraries For more information, visit www.copegalway.ie/positiveageingweek
