International day of older person

International day of older person

22 October 2025

BALLYNAHINCH’S St Patrick’s Centre was the venue for a recent event to mark international day of the older person.

The mid-morning energy was infectious as activities, games and freshly brewed tea and coffee were served, with the event organised by the South Eastern Trust’s multi-disciplinary Montalto social work team.

The parish hall was packed with older people from across the health trust area, who were keen to take part in the morning exercise class and competitive game of indoor bowls.

The health trust has been celebrating and acknowledging the contribution of older people through a series of exercise classes and wellbeing activities designed to keep minds and bodies active.

And one of them, 74 year-old Eileen Murphy, shared how much she was enjoying the morning and the company of all those in attendance.

“I have found the classes very enjoyable and good craic,” she said.

“It is nice meeting people and I have attended two of the sessions of classes so far. I am part of the Down Danderers walking group and have been in it for many years. Coming to the classes is a way of meeting people, it does help your mind and it is really great to have something to look forward to.”

Ann Armstrong (70), from Ballynahinch, described the classes as a “great opportunity to meet other people of a similar age to herself from the town”.

She continued: “The classes are very important to have; they are a great way to exercise and meet people I might not have met. 

“Once a year we go on a trip and have visited Silent Valley and Cultra which are great days out. Every Tuesday we go on a walk around Montalto Estate as well. It is a great way to interact.”

South Eastern Trust physiotherapist, Mary Kennedy, said as people get older, they tend to exercise less, explaining that it’s just as important, no matter what age you are, to keep physically active. 

“We can see today with the classes, with the games, it’s a different way of moving,” she said.

“Exercise is for everybody, it is important no matter what age you are. It is finding the right thing for you and something that you enjoy.”

Social Work assistant, Bria Doherty, said just because you are getting older does not mean you cannot come out, move, exercise and meet people and enjoy yourself. 

“Ageing is a privilege and we are delighted to provide this service for the older people here in Ballynahinch,” she said.

“Seeing everyone in the hall really just shows how getting out and moving helps physical, emotional and mental health. Age is just a number.”