Age-Friendly Film Project Celebrates Positive Ageing in County Louth
Age Friendly Louth and An Táin Arts Centre premiered two powerful short films created as part of a creative project aimed at challenging ageism and promoting positive ageing across County Louth.
The films, Fragments and Pieces of Us, were premiered at An Táin Arts Centre on Tuesday, 6 October, before an audience of participants, family members, and friends. The screening marked the culmination of a Promoting Positive Ageing project funded through the Creative Ireland Creative Communities Fund and delivered by Age Friendly Louth in partnership with An Táin Arts Centre.
Over the summer, participants from a wide range of backgrounds and age groups came together in Dunleer Library for a series of workshops designed to spark conversations around ageing, challenge stereotypes and foster meaningful connections. Through storytelling, reflection and creative exploration, participants helped to reshape perceptions of growing older in County Louth.
Cllr Dolores Minogue, Cathaoirleach of Louth County Council, praised the project and those who took part:
“This project is an example of how creativity can bring people together, challenge misconceptions and celebrate the richness of life experience. The participants have shared deeply personal stories with great honesty and generosity, helping to promote a more positive and inclusive understanding of ageing in our communities.”
One of the films, Fragments, is an emotional and moving collection of personal stories centred around photographs chosen by participants. Each image held special significance, capturing treasured memories, important relationships, and defining moments in their lives. Through sharing the stories behind these photographs, participants created a powerful tribute to the experiences that shape who we are.
The second film, Pieces of Us, features participants introducing themselves and reflecting on ageing and ageism through their own words. Together, the films offer a compelling and authentic insight into the realities of growing older while celebrating resilience, connection, and community.
Paul Hayes, Director of An Táin Arts Centre, said:
“Working on this project over the past number of months has been an incredibly rewarding experience. The workshops provided a safe and welcoming environment where participants could openly discuss ageing, share personal experiences and build lasting friendships. The honesty, creativity and generosity shown throughout the process is reflected in these films, which challenge assumptions about ageing and celebrate the individuality of every participant.”
This is the third consecutive year that Age Friendly Louth has collaborated with An Táin Arts Centre on creative projects designed to raise awareness of ageism and highlight the positive contributions older people make to society. The initiative also involved writer Niall O’Brien, who supported participants in developing and capturing their stories and Sean McMahon who shot and edited the films.
Sinéad McVerry, Age Friendly Louth Programme Manager with Louth County Council said:
“It is particularly fitting that these films are being premiered as we mark the conclusion of Positive Ageing Week, a time when we celebrate the many positive aspects of growing older and recognise the invaluable contributions older people make to our families, communities, and society.
“This project demonstrates the power of creativity and storytelling to bring people together, create meaningful connections and challenge perceptions. Through our ongoing partnership with An Táin Arts Centre, participants were given a welcoming and supportive space to share their experiences, reflect on their lives and connect with others across generations. We are grateful to Paul Hayes and the team at An Táin Arts Centre for their continued collaboration in delivering creative projects that amplify the voices of our older people and help celebrate the richness of life experience at every age.”
While Fragments will not be released publicly due to the personal and sensitive nature of the stories shared by participants, Pieces of Us will now form part of a wider public awareness campaign promoting positive ageing across County Louth.
Sinead McVerry added:
“Pieces of Us showcases the unique voices, perspectives and stories of people living in County Louth. By sharing these stories, the project helps to challenge stereotypes around ageing and encourages a more positive and inclusive conversation about growing older.”
Pieces of Us is now available to view on Louth County Council’s YouTube channel and social media platforms.