A new HSE Carlow Kilkenny intergenerational art project is highlighting the value of positive ageing, creativity and stronger community connections. The initiative brought older adults together with secondary school students to explore shared experiences and what it means to age well.
The resulting artwork, titled Growing Into Ourselves: The Human Journey Across Generations, was unveiled at Oriel House Hub in Carlow on 13 October 2026. It was created through a partnership between the Carlow Kilkenny Integrated Care Programme for Older Persons (ICPOP), Presentation Secondary School in Kilkenny, participating students, teachers and older adults involved with the service.
HSE Carlow Kilkenny project explores healthy ageing
Led by Liz Nolan, Community Connector with ICPOP and ALONE, the project involved several months of workshops, conversations and shared reflection. Participants considered the experiences that can support wellbeing throughout later life and discussed how different generations can learn from one another.
The group identified a number of important themes linked to positive ageing, including:
- Maintaining curiosity and creativity
- Building and protecting social connections
- Finding purpose in everyday activities
- Adapting to change
- Recognising joy while facing life’s challenges
The project demonstrates how creative activities can support social inclusion while creating meaningful opportunities for intergenerational learning. It also reflects the wider role of community-based services in helping older people remain connected, active and involved.
Artwork receives national recognition
Majella Cunningham, ICPOP Operations Lead for Carlow Kilkenny, said the initiative showed what can happen when people of different ages share experiences and learn together. She also highlighted creativity’s contribution to wellbeing, understanding and community connection.
The artwork has been shortlisted among ten entries selected for display at the Irish Gerontological Society National Conference in Cork. It forms part of the Professor Davis Coakley Award, which recognises artistic expression inspired by ageing.
A permanent community reminder
Following its unveiling, the piece was placed permanently at Oriel House Hub. Its display provides a lasting reminder of the insight, memories and perspectives contributed by both younger and older participants.
For communities across Carlow and Kilkenny, the HSE Carlow Kilkenny initiative shows how partnerships between healthcare services, schools and local organisations can create practical opportunities for connection and participation.
Read more
For more updates on Irish public services, community initiatives and national announcements, read Ireland news and public service updates on DailyDigest.ie.
Explore more
Discover further Irish health, society and community stories through Irish healthcare and community news on MediaDigest.ie, and explore Ireland lifestyle and wellbeing features on LuxeDigest.org.
What this project shows about positive ageing
The project underlines that ageing well is connected not only to healthcare, but also to purpose, creativity, relationships and belonging. By bringing generations together, the HSE Carlow Kilkenny programme created space for people to listen, share and build understanding.
Key takeaway: Positive ageing is strengthened when communities make room for creativity, meaningful relationships and participation at every stage of life.
Article/Image Courtesy: HSE