Older people are remaining Young at HeART with the help of a unique programme which was devliered by BEAM Creative Network in Donaghmore.
The Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, Claire Keatinge, visited the Co Tyrone based organisation as part of the National Lottery's Old is Gold campaign.
Young at HeART participants put on a special exhibition of some of arts, photography and fabrics which they made during the programme for the Commissioner.
Claire Keatinge, Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland said:
"We are a better and richer society because more of us are living longer and healthier lives than ever before. Older people make an enormous positive contribution to society but too often they are not valued, their voices are not heard, and the support that they need is not provided at the right quality or level. Older people contribute to every aspect of life in Northern Ireland and financially Northern Ireland will be £25 billion better off in the next 50 years through volunteering, caring, childcare, replacement parenting and working.
"The BEAM project is an excellent example of how older people make a positive contribution to society, engaging older people who enjoy learning and who continue to challenge themselves to learn and develop as individuals long after they reach 60.
"This unique programme serves to highlight the talent and creativity of local older people in Northern Ireland. The work I have seen today is inspirational and shows what older people have to offer."
