Supporting Older People to Live Well, Locally
Kerry is proud to be an Age Friendly County, committed to ensuring that older people feel valued, supported and connected in their communities. Whether you’ve lived here all your life or are considering a move to Kerry, you’ll find a county that celebrates its older residents and puts in place the structures and services that help them thrive.
The Kerry Age Friendly Programme, led by Kerry County Council and supported by a wide network of local and national organisations, works to create inclusive, accessible communities where older people can enjoy a high quality of life with dignity and independence.
A Strong Framework for an Age Friendly County
Kerry’s Age Friendly Strategy is based on the national Age Friendly Ireland programme and the WHO’s Global Network of Age Friendly Cities and Communities. This means that everything from housing and public transport to health, safety, and social engagement is considered through the lens of older people’s needs.
Key goals of the Kerry Age Friendly Programme include:
- Promoting independent living and ageing in place
- Supporting active lifestyles and social inclusion
- Improving access to services, transport and healthcare
- Encouraging intergenerational connection and participation
- Ensuring that older voices are heard in local decision-making
An Age Friendly Alliance, made up of representatives from HSE, An Garda Síochána, community groups, local government and older people themselves, guides this collaborative effort.
You can learn more about the programme at Kerry County Council – Age Friendly Programme.
Services & Supports for Older People in Kerry
Older residents in Kerry can access a wide range of local services, programmes and supports, including:
- Community day centres, befriending services and social clubs
- Accessible public transport, Local Link Kerry and community bus options
- Housing adaptation supports and age-friendly home design advice
- Public health services, including home care, occupational therapy and wellness programmes
- Events, walks, arts activities and intergenerational programmes designed to combat loneliness and promote wellbeing
Why Kerry is a Great Place to Grow Older
- Strong local networks and a welcoming community spirit
- Safe, scenic towns and villages with a slower pace of life
- Beautiful natural surroundings that support active outdoor lifestyles
- Strong sense of belonging and cultural connection
- Ongoing efforts to improve accessibility, inclusion and independence for all ages
Whether you’re looking to retire in Kerry, return home to family, or simply live in a place where your contributions are valued, you’ll find a county that is genuinely age friendly – not just in policy, but in practice.
