03/10/2025
PHA Highlights Risk Of Loneliness For Older People
The Public Health Agency (PHA) is urging people across Northern Ireland to get involved in local activities this October as part of Positive Ageing Month, emphasising that social connection is essential to well-being.
The warning comes as Jeff Scroggie, Regional Health Improvement Lead for Ageing Well at the PHA, stated that loneliness presents one of the "biggest risks to older people’s wellbeing." While crucial at any life stage, he stressed that social connection "becomes even more important as we get older".
To proactively address isolation and health inequalities, the PHA funds Age-Friendly Co-ordinators in all 11 local council areas. These co-ordinators are working alongside community organisations to host a diverse calendar of activities throughout the month.
The overall goal of the month is two-fold: to celebrate the valuable contributions older people make to their communities, and to help build a true sense of belonging.
Mr Scroggie highlighted that taking part in local events is a simple but effective way to meet new people and strengthen communities. He added that the network's continuing growth is essential to building an inclusive society where older people "feel valued, included and supported to live and age well."
The programme of events is designed to encourage older people to remain active, engaged, and connected. The PHA views the initiative as crucial for ensuring communities across Northern Ireland are places where all citizens can "thrive, not just survive", as they grow older.
The warning comes as Jeff Scroggie, Regional Health Improvement Lead for Ageing Well at the PHA, stated that loneliness presents one of the "biggest risks to older people’s wellbeing." While crucial at any life stage, he stressed that social connection "becomes even more important as we get older".
The overall goal of the month is two-fold: to celebrate the valuable contributions older people make to their communities, and to help build a true sense of belonging.
Mr Scroggie highlighted that taking part in local events is a simple but effective way to meet new people and strengthen communities. He added that the network's continuing growth is essential to building an inclusive society where older people "feel valued, included and supported to live and age well."
The programme of events is designed to encourage older people to remain active, engaged, and connected. The PHA views the initiative as crucial for ensuring communities across Northern Ireland are places where all citizens can "thrive, not just survive", as they grow older.
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
05 November 2025
Plans Announced To Ban Inconsiderate Pavement Parking
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has confirmed she will introduce new legislation to tackle inconsiderate pavement parking across Northern Ireland. The proposed measures aim to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility by banning parking wholly on pavements, blocking dropped kerbs, and double parking.
Plans Announced To Ban Inconsiderate Pavement Parking
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has confirmed she will introduce new legislation to tackle inconsiderate pavement parking across Northern Ireland. The proposed measures aim to improve pedestrian safety and accessibility by banning parking wholly on pavements, blocking dropped kerbs, and double parking.
16 June 2023
1 In 10 Abuse Reports Made By People Aged Over 55
One in ten people who report domestic or sexual abuse in NI are over the age of 55, the PSNI has revealed as they urge people to stand up against elder abuse and help raise awareness of how to spot the signs.
1 In 10 Abuse Reports Made By People Aged Over 55
One in ten people who report domestic or sexual abuse in NI are over the age of 55, the PSNI has revealed as they urge people to stand up against elder abuse and help raise awareness of how to spot the signs.
04 January 2018
People Urged To Get The Flu Vaccine
People in Northern Ireland who are eligible for the free flu vaccination are being urged to "get it without delay". The Public Health Agency (PHA) made the call as the strains of flu seen during Australia's winter season, particularly A(H3N2), are increasing in prevalence on this side of the world.
People Urged To Get The Flu Vaccine
People in Northern Ireland who are eligible for the free flu vaccination are being urged to "get it without delay". The Public Health Agency (PHA) made the call as the strains of flu seen during Australia's winter season, particularly A(H3N2), are increasing in prevalence on this side of the world.
02 October 2023
PHA Launches New Winter Healthy Living Campaign
The Public Health Agency (PHA) launched a new campaign on the importance of looking after your health throughout the winter.
PHA Launches New Winter Healthy Living Campaign
The Public Health Agency (PHA) launched a new campaign on the importance of looking after your health throughout the winter.
28 October 2025
Pensioners Urged To Check Eligibility For Pension Credit
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has strongly urged people over State Pension age across Northern Ireland to check if they are eligible to claim Pension Credit. The benefit provides extra money and can serve as a vital lifeline for older generations amidst rising living costs.
Pensioners Urged To Check Eligibility For Pension Credit
Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has strongly urged people over State Pension age across Northern Ireland to check if they are eligible to claim Pension Credit. The benefit provides extra money and can serve as a vital lifeline for older generations amidst rising living costs.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A sunny but frosty start for many. However cloud increases by midday with a few showers reaching the north coast, these mostly light but spreading inland this afternoon. Chilly. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A rather cloudy evening with scattered showers. Becoming drier through the night with some good clear spells developing and a patchy frost away from coasts. Minimum temperature 0 °C.