Active ageing is all about staying in good physical and mental health and getting more out of life as we get older.
That was the key message from Health Minister Edwin Poots as he officially launched the ‘Arts and Older Peoples’ project at Lagan Valley Island Centre, Lisburn.
The initiative aims to strengthen the voice of older people, while promoting positive mental health and emotional well-being through the arts.
Launched in June 2010, the Arts Council’s pilot Arts and Older People Programme was established to increase opportunities for older people to engage with the arts. The second phase was unveiled today in the Island Arts Centre in Lisburn.
Minister Poots said: “A key challenge for government, business and public and private sectors is how to enable and support older people to get more out of life for longer. This will have benefits for both individuals and society.
“Taking enjoyment from all facets of life is key to positive health and well being at any age. I welcome this initiative which demonstrates how government departments and agencies work in synergy and as a result make health improvement a realistic achievement for everyone in our community regardless of age.
“Together the Arts Community and Health and Social Care services can make a real difference to the wellbeing of older people and their families and carers through projects such as this.”
Government representatives, funders, local artists, community groups and other key stakeholders were present to mark the launch of the second phase.
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