MAISIE IS POSITIVELY AGEING!
October is positive ageing month, and there is only one woman in Northern Ireland who can kick off the celebrations in style – Maisie Allison who is 106 years young!
Sprightly Maisie is a resident of Abbeyfield & Wesley Ballymoney – and she’s looking forward to taking part in the annual month-long celebrations that honour the contribution older people make to society.
Maisie said: “It’s wonderful to be part of such a warm and caring community. I’ve made many friends here and enjoy the activities that keep us all connected.”
Abbeyfield & Wesley Housing Association is planning a series of events across the housing organisation’s supported and sheltered schemes.
The month will feature a variety of activities and events aimed at promoting social connection, physical activity, and overall wellbeing for older residents across its houses in Northern Ireland.
Abbeyfield & Wesley’s planned events reflect these goals, with a special focus on the five steps to wellbeing: Be Active, Connect, Take Notice, Give, and Keep Learning.
Patrick Thompson, Chief Executive of Abbeyfield & Wesley Housing Association, said: “Positive Ageing Month is an important opportunity to highlight the vibrant, active role that older people play in our communities. At Abbeyfield & Wesley, we strive to create environments where our residents can thrive, surrounded by support, companionship, and opportunities to engage with others.”
As part of Positive Ageing Month, Abbeyfield & Wesley will host a variety of engaging activities including seated exercise sessions in The Parade, Donaghadee, Fleming House, East Belfast, and Church Road, Holywood; a “Cooking for One on a Budget” cookery demonstration at Wesley Court, Carrickfergus, led by Abbeyfield & Wesley Support Managers; and an online safety workshop at Bryans House, Glengormley focusing on scam awareness as well as online safety.
Residents’ creative talents will also be celebrated with a small exhibition showcasing photographs by Elizabeth, a tenant, a display of painted tiles by resident, Maurine, handcrafts from the Bryans House Knit and Natter group and floral arrangements by Merville residents Jean, Gitta and Myrtle Meanwhile resident David will demonstrate his flair for colouring.
As part of the celebrations, Abbeyfield & Wesley will also be honouring Maisie Allison, a resident of their Ballymoney house, who recently turned 106 making her the oldest resident in the association.
Originally from Glasgow, Maisie has been a beloved member of the Abbeyfield & Wesley family for several years, and her presence really illustrates the spirit of positive ageing.
She celebrated her 106th birthday an September and was in the British Army during the Second World War where she was sent to Wales in 1942, age 26, to learn Morse code and intercept German messages.
After the war it was very tough, jobs were in short supply and Maisie worked in offices and shops, just wherever she could get work.
Maisie has been married twice and widowed twice. She had two sons and a daughter to her first husband.
She moved to Northern Ireland seven years ago when her first great-great-grandchild was born.
Maisie does the Lottery every week but has only ever won a few pounds, her biggest win was £30! She is very proud of her Scottish heritage.
Learn more about Abbeyfield & Wesley at www.abbeyfieldandwesley.org.uk or via email at info@abbeyfieldandwesley.org.uk
