Plan to make Galway safer and more accessible for older people

GALWAY's new Age Friendly Strategy is aiming to provide safer, affordable and more accessible facilities for older people in the area.

Representatives of Galway City and County Council came together in Tuam last week to launch the strategy which runs from 2026-2030.

Addressing the event, Cathaoirleach of Galway County Council, Cllr David Collins said that the new strategy builds on the progress made since 2011, as they continue to work towards making Galway a great place to grow old.

“This strategy has been developed through strong cooperation with service providers and with members of the public across Galway City and County,” said Cllr Collins.

“By responding directly to the specific issues that most affect older people living in our communities, the strategy will support the continuation and expansion of age friendly initiatives throughout the county,” he added.

The newly launched strategy highlighted the achievements in the past years such as all libraries in Galway achieving Age-Friendly status, the installation of age-friendly seating and bus stops at several locations, the establishment of an Older People’s Council, increasing the number of age-friendly businesses in the County and successfully piloting the Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme.

The new strategy will focus on providing safe and accessible outdoor spaces and buildings, accessible, connected and affordable transportation options; ensuring older people have access to safe, affordable and accessible housing and encouraging them to participate in social activities.

Cllr Collins acknowledged the work done by Maria Hall and her team at HUB Planning, the ongoing efforts by the Age Friendly Alliance, Older Persons’ Councils and other organisations.

“Your commitment to inclusion, and the actions and interventions contained within this strategy, whether large or small, will contribute to a better future not just for older people, but for society as a whole,” he commented.