Wednesday, April 20, 2011

May is the month that seniors celebrate Creativity and the Arts


May belongs to the Bealtaine festival and this year’s Bealtaine theme is “Push the Boat out, whatever the sea”. Celebrating creativity for the older person (over 55’s), Waterford City Library Service has compiled a jam packed schedule of art, dance, digital photography, pilates, techno clinics and gardening workshops.

According to Age & Opportunity, which coordinates the festival, an estimated 57,000 people now take part in the Bealtaine festival, making it one of Ireland’s biggest arts festivals.

Local businesswoman, Danette Connolly of Home Instead Senior Care, which provides home care for Waterford seniors, has welcomed the festival and the work of Waterford City Library Service.

Ms. Connolly commented “It is wonderful to see such a diverse and interesting schedule put together specifically for seniors. Age is a state of mind and by pursuing an active lifestyle and availing of the opportunities to learn new skills the mind is kept as inquiring and vibrant as ever.”

“The Waterford City Library Service’s Bealtaine line up has something for everyone. I would urge all seniors and their families and friends to call into the Library, sign up for a workshop, enjoy the host of events and talks and keep active.”

“Free copies of the Home Instead Senior Care Pensioners Handbook will also be available. This is an invaluable free resource for seniors, their families and caregivers. The handbook provides practical information and advice on issues such as home care and allowances and entitlements. It also boasts a directory of older person's organisations and other useful contacts.”

Jane Cantwell, City Librarian with Waterford City Library added “The Bealtaine Festival is a true celebration of creativity for the young at heart. From May 1st to May 31st Waterford City Library Service has compiled a programme of events that offers seniors, in particular, the opportunity to learn new skills, discover new talents, try something different and generally enjoy themselves.”

Ms. Cantwell added “We will also be introducing a new range of e-books, audio books and life-long learning materials. Events are free and we would love to see everyone call in and experience the Bealtaine Festival.”

So, if you are over 55 and want to try something new, set your sails to new horizons with the selection of free workshops and talks at this year’s Bealtaine Festival.

For further information about the Bealtaine Festival and programme of events, contact Waterford Central Library 051 849975; Ardkeen Library 051 84975 or Brown’s Road Library 051 849845 or visit the Library website at www.waterfordcity.ie/library

To pick up a free copy of the Home Instead Senior Care Pensioners Handbook, just call into any branch of your local library in May or log onto www.homeinstead.ie.

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