Co. Waterford, Ireland — 18 Dec. 2009 — Home Instead Senior Care, the world’s leading provider of non-medical, in home services to seniors, conducted a survey of participants at Waterford’s perennial Golden Years Festival which took place last month.

Now in its sixth year the festival was a huge success with over 400 active aged from all over Ireland enjoying the packed schedules of entertainment and events.

The Golden Years Festival was the brainchild of Anna Manahan, renowned actress and Freeman of Waterford, who passed away earlier this year. The jam- packed programme included a song contest, a fashion show, an art competition and a bowling contest. Many of the visitors were also afforded the opportunity to visit places of interest in Waterford and also to enjoy some retail therapy.

According to Danette Connolly, Director of Home Instead Senior Care, the results from the survey revealed that the country’s active aged enjoy a full life, with support from their families, who in the main, live close by.

“It was great to get such an insight into the lives of our senior community. The results of the survey which was filled out by participants of the Golden Years festival showed that although the majority of respondents live alone (56%) the majority enjoy family living close by (within a 5 mile radius).

It also painted a picture of a health conscious demographic who believe in exercise and healthy living. Whilst 89% of respondents exercise, a staggering 57% exercise every day.”

The survey also exposed that with longevity comes wisdom, confidence, independence, freedom to enjoy more holidays, less responsibility, more time to get to grips with technology and computers and the opportunity to enjoy quality time with grandchildren.

However Danette added “Although this paints a picture of a strong willed, active and independent group I would urge everyone to keep an eye out for any elderly relative or neighbour over the Christmas period.

Seniors often don’t recognize when they require help that’s why adult children should identify where their loved ones need assistance. Providing seniors assistance with a few basic tasks, such as meal preparation, light housework, companionship and medication reminders can make a huge difference to an elderly parent.”

For more information about Home Instead Senior Care and the services provided call 051 -333966 or visit www.homeinstead.ie