ABC Seniors Network

11/06/2026

Events over recent days can impact on mental health and wellbeing.

Everyone reacts differently, and that’s okay. Remember that support is available.

If you or someone you know needs support, our website provides helpful guidance and resources. Follow the link in the comments.

10/06/2026

Community pharmacies are raising awareness of the health risks associated of drinking excess alcohol and the steps we can take to be more aware of our drinking habits.

As part of the Living Well service the ‘Know your units’ campaign runs throughout June and July, and encourages us to speak to our pharmacist to find out more about the units in our drinks and the effects they can have.

Find out more at www.drugsandalcoholni.info

08/06/2026

Active Connections – Free Loneliness Awareness Week Event on Friday 19 June from 10:00am – 1:00pm in The Epicentre, Lisanally Lane, Armagh. Open to anyone in the ABC area. Come along to meet new people and make connections. Whether you’d like to take part in activities or just come along for a chat – everyone is welcome. Lunch is provided. Maximum of 2 bookings per registration. Booking closes: Friday 12 June
For more information or to book, email [email protected] or call 07500772905.

03/06/2026

Home Instead - Banbridge, Newry & Mourne Pet Competition Please follow instructions on post below to enter:

📢Competition time🎁
What is pet care for older people?
Many people develop health conditions as they age, such as , or ’s disease, & this can make caring for furry, feathered or scaly friends more challenging. In some cases, it may become impossible.
Pets bring great joy & to the lives of older people, & are often considered part of the family, so our Care Professionals are on hand to help look after them, taking on tasks like:
• Remembering to feed pets & top up water bowls
• Changing litter trays
• Walking dogs or letting them outside for toilet breaks
• Cleaning out cages, fish tanks etc
• Transporting pets to veterinary appointments
• Facilitating quality time with pets if handling them becomes more difficult
Why is pet care helpful for older adults?
Research has shown that owning a pet can lead to better health outcomes for older people, which could be due to their stress relieving effects & the companionship they provide. Pets of all types can also give older adults structure in their day & are generally enjoyable to be around
As abilities change over time, an older person may find they are no longer able to provide a pet with the attentive care they deserve, but this does not mean they must live without them. Older adults can continue to benefit from having their pet around thanks to regular home care visits. Our Care Professionals can help to maintain their care routines, ensure pets are well looked after & keep cherished animal friends in the home

Do I need pet care?
If you are beginning to experience fatigue due to the strenuous physical activity involved in taking care of your pet, or you are becoming anxious about forgetting their needs, then it could be helpful to include pet care in your home care package. This can give you peace of mind that the pet you love is being properly nurtured.
We take on pet care in a variety of circumstances, for example if issues make walking a dog more difficult & tiring, if arthritis impacts the ability to handle small pets, or if dementia causes worries about forgetting to feed a pet or attend a veterinary appointment

02/06/2026

On Thursday 15 October 2026, the Older People’s Parliament will take place in Parliament Buildings. The following survey will help determine the issues that will be raised and discussed during the Parliament.

The Parliament is an opportunity for key issues that impact the lives of older people across Northern Ireland to be shared directly with decision-makers.
Why your views matter
Your views are important. By telling us the issues that are important to you then you will help shape the Older People's Parliament.
Click here to complete the survey:
https://consult.nia-yourassembly.org.uk/engagement/older-peoples-parliament/
Survey closing date: Friday 24 July 2026

Paper copies of the survey will also be available. If you would like copies for your group or organisation, please request how many you require and the address they should be sent to by emailing us at [email protected]. We can also provide prepaid return envelopes for completed responses.

For anyone who would prefer to complete the survey by phone, telephone surveys will be available on 028 9052 1761 or 028 9052 1440. Phone lines will be open Monday to Friday, from 10am to 2pm.

Find and participate in consultations run by the Northern Ireland Assembly

29/05/2026

Active Connections - Loneliness Awareness Week Event on Friday 19 June from 10:00am – 1:00pm in the Epicentre, Lisanally Lane, Armagh. Lunch included. Maximum of two bookings per registration. Booking closes: Friday 12 June. For more info or to book: Email: [email protected] or call 07500772905

22/05/2026

David and Stephanie pictured with the Lord Mayor Alderman Stephen Moutray at the Hillsborough Garden Party on Wednesday!!

21/05/2026

We attended the "Feel Good Armagh"Joining The Dots Networking Event, last Thursday in Armagh City Hotel alongside Age Friendly and Age NI. This was a great opportunity to find out about local services providing support in the Armagh area.

08/05/2026

4 Week Digital Support Programme (Ages 50+)
The Digital Support Programme offers people aged 50 and over the opportunity to build confidence and improve their digital skills. We will be delivering three programmes across the Borough, in Keady, Lurgan and Banbridge designed to support beginners in learning how to use digital devices such as mobile phones, laptops, and tablets. The programme aims to help more people get online and gain long term access to technology. No previous experience is required – this programme is ideal for beginners. Please note the Keady Programme starts on Monday 11 May so don’t miss out, book your place today.
What will the programme cover?
• Using email
• Downloading and using apps
• Completing online booking forms
• Online communication
• Navigating and using websites

How to book
Call: Caelan on 07501 018404
Email: [email protected]

30/04/2026

David out promoting ABC Seniors Network at Rural Community Development Association and Stephanie out at Glenanne Community Association last weekend. If you have any events coming up that you would like us to attend, drop us a message and we would be more than happy to come out and raise awareness of ABC Seniors Network.