“Not Slowing but Knowing” is an Age Friendly Waterford podcast in partnership with Waterford Older People’s Council brought to you in association with Waterford City & County Council and hosted by Tony Kelly.
This eight-part series celebrates the value, participation and wisdom that come with age, exploring what it means to age well in Waterford through the stories, experiences, communities and supports that make growing older something to embrace not fear.
Across the series, we explore the work of the Age Friendly Programme in Waterford, meet inspiring local voices from across the county and have honest conversations about health, creativity, connection, independence and what it really means to age well in Waterford.
“Not Slowing but Knowing” reflects that with age comes deeper understanding, resilience and insight, showing that growing older is defined not by limitation, but by experience, purpose, value and wisdom.
The Age Friendly Waterford Programme is administered by Waterford City & County Council in partnership with Waterford Older People’s Council and the Waterford Age Friendly Alliance. The programme is administered nationally by Age Friendly Ireland, hosted by Meath County Council.
While this podcast focuses on the Age Friendly Programme for Waterford, listeners from across Ireland can use the information shared to connect with supports, services and Age Friendly initiatives in their own county through the national Age Friendly Ireland Programme (www.agefriendlyireland.ie (http://www.agefriendlyireland.ie/) or call 046 90321700) or via their own local authority.
Episode 6: Lifelong Learning and the Valuable Contributions of Older Adults
What does it mean to keep learning, growing, and contributing throughout our lives? In this episode, we explore how lifelong learning, volunteering, and community participation can help older adults stay connected, confident, and fulfilled. Joined by Laura Power, UNESCO Lifelong Learning Coordinator, Réka Széplaki, Manager of Waterford Volunteer Centre, and Damien Tobin from Local Link, we challenge outdated assumptions about ageing and highlight the many ways older people continue to shape and strengthen our communities. Together, we discuss the power of learning at every stage of life, how volunteering creates opportunities for new skills and purpose, and why accessible transport is essential for helping people engage with their communities. We also examine the barriers that can prevent participation, from confidence and digital skills to accessibility and awareness, and explore what can be achieved when services work together around the needs of older adults. From inspiring stories of personal growth to a shared vision for age-friendly communities, this conversation is a reminder that it's never too late to try something new. Because ageing well isn't about slowing down. It's about staying connected, engaged, and continuing to learn, contribute and thrive.
Proudly Brought to you by Waterford City & County Council.
In this episode of Not Slowing but Knowing, we speak with Siobhan Maher, Social Work Team Lead with the HSE about recognising risks, responding to concerns and supporting older adults to live safely and with dignity and why it matters to individuals, families, carers and communities.Safeguarding is about protecting a person's right to live safely, free from abuse, neglect, exploitation and harm. It involves recognising when an older adult may be at risk, understanding how to respond appropriately and ensuring that dignity, choice and independence remain at the centre of any intervention.We discuss the different forms of abuse and neglect, the signs that may indicate an older person is at risk, what to do if you have concerns, and what happens when safeguarding services become involved. We also explore the important role that families, neighbours, healthcare professionals and communities play in helping older adults stay safe and supported.
Proudly Brought to you by Waterford City & County Council.
11 Jun 2026
Episode 4: Belonging, Care & Connection
In Episode 4 of Not Slowing but Knowing, we explore the importance of belonging, care and connection in supporting healthy and fulfilling lives as we age. Joining us are Ned Kearney of Muintir na Tíre, Fiona Laffan, Social Prescribing Coordinator and Cathryn O’Leary from the Alzheimer Society of Ireland. Together, they discuss the value of strong community networks, the role of social prescribing in improving wellbeing and the supports available for people living with dementia and their families. The conversation highlights how meaningful connections, accessible services and community engagement can help combat loneliness, promote independence and enhance quality of life for older people. An inspiring and informative discussion that shines a light on the power of community, compassion and connection in creating a more age friendly and supportive society.
Proudly Brought to you by Waterford City & County Council.
11 Jun 2026
Episode 3: Age Friendly Living: Homes, Business & Community
In Episode 3 of Not Slowing but Knowing, we explore what it means to create truly age friendly communities in a discussion on homes, businesses and community life. Joining us are Kevin Moynihan, Healthy Age Friendly Homes Co-ordinator, Emma Power, Waterford City & County Council Age Friendly Technical Adviser, and Jenny Beresford, CEO of Dungarvan & West Waterford Chamber. Together, they examine how housing, local services, businesses and public spaces can be designed and adapted to support people as they age. The conversation highlights practical initiatives, innovative approaches and collaborative efforts that are helping to make Waterford a more inclusive, accessible and welcoming place for older people to live, work and participate in community life. An engaging discussion offering valuable insights into the role we all play in building age friendly environments that benefit people of all ages.
Proudly Brought to you by Waterford City & County Council.
11 Jun 2026
Episode 2: The Voice of Older People
In this episode of Not Slowing but Knowing we are joined by Jim Farnan, Chair of Waterford Older People's Council, along with Executive Officers Ray Fuller and John Lawless. Together, they discuss the vital role the Council plays in representing and advocating for older people across Waterford, ensuring their voices are heard in decisions that affect their lives and communities. The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities facing older citizens today, the importance of active ageing, community engagement and the initiatives being undertaken to promote inclusion, wellbeing and positive ageing throughout the county. An insightful and informative discussion highlighting the power of collective action and the value older people bring to society.
Proudly Brought to you by Waterford City & County Council.
11 May 2026
Episode One: Introduction to Waterford Age Friendly Programme with Sean McKeown
On this episode Tony interviews guest Sean McKeown, Chief Executive, Waterford City & County Council and Chair of the Waterford Age Friendly Alliance.
Proudly Brought to you by Waterford City & County Council.
11 May 2026
Not Slowing But Knowing Trailer
“Not Slowing but Knowing” is an Age Friendly Waterford podcast in partnership with Waterford Older People’s Council brought to you in association with Waterford City & County Council and hosted by Tony Kelly.
This eight-part series celebrates the value, participation and wisdom that come with age, exploring what it means to age well in Waterford through the stories, experiences, communities and supports that make growing older something to embrace not fear.
Across the series, we explore the work of the Age Friendly Programme in Waterford, meet inspiring local voices from across the county and have honest conversations about health, creativity, connection, independence and what it really means to age well in Waterford.
“Not Slowing but Knowing” reflects that with age comes deeper understanding, resilience and insight, showing that growing older is defined not by limitation, but by experience, purpose, value and wisdom.
The Age Friendly Waterford Programme is administered by Waterford City & County Council in partnership with Waterford Older People’s Council and the Waterford Age Friendly Alliance. The programme is administered nationally by Age Friendly Ireland, hosted by Meath County Council.
Proudly Brought to you by Waterford City & County Council.
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