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Week 4: Strategies for being socially engaged
In this week of our course, we look at social engagement and why this is important for successful ageing.
Hello, and welcome to week four of strategies for successful ageing. This week is focused on staying connected to your family, friends, and community. No matter your age. Professors Virpi Timonen, Brian Lawlor, and Richard Layte will discuss civic engagement and opportunities for participation.
What is civic engagement? How do you influence community life? Is it too late to follow your dreams? Of course not. This week you will meet inspirational achievers who have followed their dreams and are making a difference every day. You will learn about Men’s Sheds. A growing movement here in Ireland, which encourages men to work side by side to combat social isolation.
For the past 10 years, more than 8,000 Irish adults have contributed to The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing. And Dr Anne Nolan will discuss engaged research and the benefits of being a participant in research studies.
You will also learn about the power of volunteerism and share how you stay involved. Don’t underestimate the power of every day engagement, and particularly, the value of generations interacting. The week will provide a glimpse into the many opportunities for participation in community life. You will watch videos, read articles, take part in discussions. And we will close this week by sharing your stories to inspire others to action. Enjoy.
Looking after your physical and mental health is important for successful ageing, but another piece of the puzzle is staying socially engaged. This means being active in your community, talking to others, and getting involved in things that interest you.
This week:
- Professor of Old Age Psychiatry Brian Lawlor explores this idea of ‘social engagement’ and why it is important for successful ageing.
- Assistant Professor in Sociology Richard Layte delves into the relationship between social participation and social capital.
- What are common constraints to getting engaged? Professor in Social Policy and Ageing Virpi Timonen looks at the virtuous cycle of engagement.
- Is it too late to follow your dreams? Research Assistant Professor in Psychology Sabina Brennan is back with research into reaching aspirations in later life.
- Helping you set goals is Liz Harper from Age and Opportunity, who gives you practical tips for making plans.
- Taking part in research is another way that you can give back for generations to come. Dr Anne Nolan describes why this is important and the benefits of taking part in research.
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