Launch of Athboy Age Friendly Business Initiative

Businesses in Athboy came together to help launch the Age Friendly Business recognition scheme in the town.

The launch coincided with the official opening of the new Medical Centre which is now home to the local doctor’s surgery, dentist, physiotherapist, opticians and lots more.

Cathaoirleach of Meath County Council Cllr David Gilroy officially launched the scheme along with Sean Boylan, Meath Age Friendly Business Ambassador.

It was also a great day for Padraig Staunton, owner of the Medical Centre.

The Age Friendly programme works with persons aged 55 years and upwards. With Ireland’s population growing, and people living longer, healthier lives this is putting a greater demand on our services.

There will be more than 1.5 million older people of 65 years plus by 2051 living and shopping in Ireland and this is growing.

Older people account for up to 50per cent of consumer spending. They have the time, they like to shop, and they are loyal customers. If you make your consumer experience pleasant for them, they will return time and time again.

Becoming an Age Friendly Business is simple to achieve. It can be low cost, or no cost and it opens up new business for you by enticing more older people to shop locally.

You can do simple things to make your business more Age Friendly by having a chair available, or even a pair of reading glasses or simply taking the time out to chat with your older customers.

The launch is a great way for Athboy businesses to welcome back older customers to the town again following the lifting of further restrictions.