Positive Ageing Month 2026 to celebrate role of older citizens
15 September 2026
Council is encouraging older residents to get involved in a packed programme of activities this October as Positive Ageing Month 2026 gets underway.
Derry City and Strabane District Council is encouraging older residents to get involved in a packed programme of activities this October as Positive Ageing Month 2026 gets underway.
Positive Ageing Month is an annual, month-long celebration which takes place every October to recognise older adults and promote health, connection and wellbeing. Delivered in partnership with the Public Health Agency, the campaign begins on October 1st, coinciding with the International Day of Older Persons, and highlights the valuable role that people aged 50 and over play in communities across the council area.
This year's theme, ‘The Part We Play’ celebrates the vital contribution older citizens make to society through leadership, caregiving, volunteering, economic participation and a lifetime of knowledge and experience.
A wide-ranging programme of events has been organised across all the City and District, offering opportunities for people to learn new skills, meet others and remain active. Activities include sound baths, candle-making workshops, a Magee Library tour, falls prevention workshops, Halloween tea dance and bingo events, alongside many other community-based initiatives.
Council, with the support of the Public Health Agency, has also developed a dedicated programme of events, including a Silent Disco in the Guildhall on October 14th, a day trip to Stormont featuring a guided tour and informative talk on the history of the Parliament Buildings, and a series of legal information workshops in Derry and Strabane focusing on Enduring Power of Attorney and will writing.
Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Grace Uí Niallais, encouraged older residents to take part in the month-long programme, saying: "Positive Ageing Month is a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the enormous contribution that older people make to our communities every day. This year's theme, 'The Part We Play', reminds us that older residents continue to be leaders, volunteers, carers, mentors and active participants in community life.
"The wide range of events taking place throughout October offers something for everyone, whether you want to learn a new skill, improve your wellbeing, connect with others or simply enjoy good company. I would encourage people from right across the district to get involved and make the most of the opportunities available."
Council's Age Friendly Officer, Pauline O'Neill, said the programme had been designed to promote inclusion, wellbeing and lifelong participation.
"Positive Ageing Month is about celebrating older people and creating opportunities for them to stay connected, informed and engaged within their communities. We are delighted, with the support of the Public Health Agency, to offer a diverse programme of activities across the district that reflects the interests and needs of older residents.
"From wellbeing workshops and creative activities to social events and practical information sessions, the programme aims to support positive ageing while recognising the important role older people play in shaping and strengthening our communities. We look forward to welcoming participants throughout October and celebrating the invaluable contribution they continue to make."
For full details of events taking place during Positive Ageing Month and information on how to take part, visit https://www.derrystrabane.com/community/age-friendly/positive-ageing-month