Busy times for Ballina Active retirees

Another example of forked tongues and broken promises.

The meeting had to be curtailed somewhat to allow for a talk by Gemma McDonald from “Task Community Care” which provides monitoring services to vulnerable older people in their homes who avail of its services. 

Among the topics covered in addition to home monitoring were smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, panic buttons and internal and external lighting.  She referred to the presence of carbon monoxide as “the silent killer”.  Carbon monoxide build up occurs where there is poor ventilation and faulty appliances.

She said that many older people seal up the vents in their homes in an effort to keep warm, only to be found dead in a monoxide filled room.  Carbon monoxide alarms should be fitted between knee and shoulder height and must be replaced after 5 years which is the end of their working life. 

The service is organised by a local sponsorship group and hopefully Ballina Active Retirement Association will be successful.  The annual maintenance fee is €66,

which has not changed for 16 years.  She also revealed that over 65’s living alone or with a partner of similar age is entitled to a waiver from the fire brigade

charge and she advised members to obtain a copy of a booklet “Entitlements for Over 65’s” available from Citizens Information.

The business end of the meeting was taken up with the election of sub-committees in catering, entertainment, sport and planning.  Among the activities planned were:

a tea-dance in early May to celebrate Bealtaine and a five day trip to Bantry from May 21st to May 25th (€340). Ten members have booked a trip to Lake Garda, Venice

and Verona to commence on April 30th. The monthly visit to Attymass will take place on Tues. 21st with the monthly table quiz on Wed.22nd.

The newly elected chairperson, Rose Armstrong reminded members that BARA would celebrate its tenth anniversary in November which will warrant a special celebration.