“It’s a space for everyone, whether you are 50 or 90!” – Maria and Ann’s Story

Friends since their school days, Maria and Ann have found a second home at The Bungalow – a warm and lively hub for older people in the Mervue community and the surrounding area, run by COPE Galway. 

What began as a chance encounter has blossomed into regular, meaningful weekly visits, filled with laughter, learning and community connections. At The Bungalow, the pair have the chance to catch up, share stories and participate in a colourful mix of activities and social events.  

Maria and Ann reflect on their daily visits there, speaking fondly of the welcoming atmosphere and their shared appreciation for the service and the activities it offers.  

‘’The Bungalow has changed my life completely!’’ Maria shares.  

‘’It’s a new lease of life for me. I wake up excited for my mornings and say to myself – this is my time!’’  

Located in the heart of Mervue, The Bungalow has become a cornerstone for older adults like Maria and Ann seeking social connection, physical activity and a renewed sense of purpose. 

Maria recalls passing the hub on her daily morning walks, wondering what was going on:  

‘’I used to pass frequently and sometimes I’d stop and peek in. I remember thinking to myself – I’d love to get involved here and meet some women of my own age. One Friday, I was passing after a walk and Sandra happened to be outside.’’  

Sandra, The Bungalow’s Activities Coordinator, had seen Maria before, too:  

‘’I had spotted her a handful of times, and I wanted to welcome her inside. Sometimes new visitors can be shy or unsure.’’  

Maria remembers this first visit:  

Sandra invited me in, showed me around, gave me a flyer and explained all the activities to me. She told me there’s a class starting in fifteen minutes – why don’t you wait? And I said, you know what… I will. I’ll give it a go.’’  

To Maria’s surprise, Ann, a friend from her school days, was already inside. Maria fondly recalls this moment:  

‘’I went in and the next thing – who comes around the corner? Ann and her sister! It was a great reunion.’’  

Ann, who happened to be waiting for a Zumba class, was equally pleased:  

Maria and I had known each other for years. We were in the same class at school and did the Leaving Cert together in 1975. We hadn’t seen each other in years.’’  

Since then, Maria and Ann have become frequent guests of The Bungalow and have rekindled an important friendship.  

‘’Since joining, I see Ann three to four times a week!’’ Maria remarks.  

The pair highlight the importance of the social connections made possible by the activities at The Bungalow, which can range from chair yoga or Zumba, to creative writing and technology workshops.   

‘’There are so many classes,’’ Ann explains. ‘’The Bungalow makes sure there is something for everyone.’’  

For example, they sent out a flyer asking what activities we’d like. I asked for something on using technology because I’m terrible at it. So they organised a six-week course to teach us how to use our phones. Now I can book tickets online and check the bus timetable, I no longer get caught waiting in the rain!’’  

One of Maria and Ann’s most loved activities is the popular weekly Zumba class. It’s not only a great way to stay active, but a regular source of giggles and fun for all participants.  

‘’It’s a space for everyone and everybody is catered for. Every age group, whether you are 50 or 90!’’  

‘’If they play a song we know, we’ll start singing. There is a lot of 80s music, which suits us down to the bone.’’  

You never feel pressured here, and that is why people keep coming back.’’  

Maria and Ann’s visits to The Bungalow have become a source of companionship, purpose and enjoyment, with the space offering them somewhere to seek connection and to feel supported and valued.  

Maria sums it up: ‘’I came in that first morning looking for something social, but I found so much more.’’  

The Bungalow is a vibrant community hub for older people in Mervue and surrounding areas.  Zumba, yoga, technology skills and creative writing are just some of the activities offered, alongside regular coffee and lunch club social gatherings. Through this range of activities, shaped by the community’s needs, The Bungalow has become a space where older adults regain confidence, build friendships, and take charge of their wellbeing. The positive changes in people’s lives show how meaningful, inclusive opportunities make a real and positive difference. 

Phone our team for further information: 085 747 5021. 

This story was first published in the 2024 COPE Galway Annual Report.