Older people in Mayo are urged to join their local Older People’s Council
Solutions to better protect and support older people during severe weather events will be the focus of this year’s National Age Friendly Ireland Older People’s Councils Convention, where more than 200 older people from across Ireland will gather in Athlone today.
Hosted by Age Friendly Ireland, the 2026 Convention will focus on resilience and sustainability, exploring how older people can be supported to live happier, healthier and longer lives in their own communities, while ensuring they are better prepared, better informed and better supported when severe weather strikes.
Age Friendly Ireland said storm preparedness must now be recognised as an Age Friendly issue. For many older people, severe weather events can quickly disrupt access to transport, health appointments, home heating, electricity, communications, medication, food supplies and social connection. Without clear planning and joined-up local information, those most at risk can become isolated or unsupported when extreme weather occurs. Older people in Mayo can find out how to join their local Older People's Council here.
A key focus of this year’s Convention is how stronger coordination of local systems that identify and support those most at risk during emergencies can improve safety, independence and quality of life. This will include a discussion on the importance of a unified vulnerable persons register to help local authorities, emergency responders and community partners to respond more effectively during storms, power outages and other severe weather events.
Delegates will also take part in practical demonstrations on how to assemble a storm-ready emergency pack, ensuring that older people and their families have the essential items, contacts and information in place.
The annual Convention, facilitated each year by Age Friendly Ireland, provides a national platform for members of Older People’s Councils from across the country to discuss the issues affecting older people in Ireland today and to help shape practical, local responses. The Convention’s focus is rooted in the empowerment of older generations and their families to be prepared for evolving weather events, and ensuring they have access to knowledge of the supports available.
Catherine McGuigan, Chief Officer, Age Friendly Ireland said: “Severe weather events are becoming more frequent and more disruptive, and older people are often among those most at risk. A power outage, an icy road, or interrupted access to medication or transport, can have a detrimental effect on those most vulnerable.
“Attendees at last year’s Convention highlighted data sharing between agencies as one of the most important actions to progress in 2026. This reflects a growing concern about how vulnerable people can be identified and supported during emergencies, whether that is a severe weather event, a power outage or a public health crisis. That is why storm preparedness, and stronger coordination between agencies, is such a key focus this year.”
Catherine Lenihan, Chair, National Older People’s Council said: "A key point we will be raising is that building Age Friendly sustainable communities is not just about planning for older age but about creating places where people of all ages can live well, stay connected, and support one another through any scenario. Through our local Older People’s Councils, we are sharing the experience and insight of older people while helping to shape stronger, more inclusive communities for future generations.”
She added: “With this in mind, I would encourage any older person who wants their voice to effect change in their community to join their local OPC. This is where your lived experience can help influence decisions and contribute to a more sustainable and age friendly future for all.”
For more information or to find out how to join your local Older People’s Council, visit here, www.agefriendlyireland.ie or contact your local authority.