I might not always hit the high notes, but I love to sing.

Gerry Mylotte is a regular guest at Sonas Social Centre – a welcoming space for older residents in the Mervue community. Living nearby, he frequently calls in to visit with friends at Sonas.

Originally from Dunmore, County Galway, Gerry reflects on what the service means to him, and the sense of belonging it offers: ‘Sonas is an opportunity to see people. I’ve made great friends here and it gives me space to catch up with them. Sometimes we have a good chat, play games, or have a cuppa. Really, it is an opportunity for us to do something nice with our day.’

‘It’s about being part of the community,’ Gerry adds, highlighting the attraction of the centre for himself and his peers:

For us, it’s a massive comfort to have this service. It’s a nice place to be. Sometimes you don’t want to be at home. Sonas makes that possible.”

On talking to Gerry, you get the sense of an outgoing individual with a community-orientated character – a person who seizes each day by helping others and sharing a laugh. ‘It’s a good life,’ he proclaims.

After his morning tea or coffee (depending on his mood!) Gerry walks down to Salthill from his apartment in Mervue. An avid sea-swimmer and walker, he spends his afternoons at Salthill’s swimming spots.

I go swimming every day of the year. When the tide is in, and you can float around on the waves, I’m happiest then.”

Gerry always has someplace to be, ‘I’m a busy man. I like it best that way.’ With a love of football, he often stewards at local and inter-county GAA matches.

‘I’ll take people to their seats, keep an eye on the crowds. Then I can watch the football. It’s great!’

By Monday, you’ll find Gerry with the COPE Galway Singing Group. He jokes:

‘I might not always hit the high notes, but I love to sing.”

Adding to Gerry’s list of weekly activities, he likes to lend a helping hand where possible. Recently, he’s been assisting a friend with their garden.

‘I’ll do some weeding and clearing up. I’m glad to help out.’

In 2023, Gerry was honoured as one of Galway’s Positive Ageing Week local heroes, shining a light on his social and community spirit. He is a visible reminder to his community of what a healthy, happy, and active lifestyle looks like.

People like Gerry motivate others to remain active and engaged in their communities. He inspires us all to support our own ageing journeys so we can look forward to good health, happiness and an enjoyable experience as we move up in years.”

Jacquie Lynskey, Head of COPE Galway Senior Support Service

On rainy days, Gerry takes a break from his busy routine and heads over to Sonas.

“I like going there to relax. Being with people – I find that relaxing.” He reminisces on mornings spent with friends, playing a game of cards, and having a laugh while the weather is bad outside, “We’re happy to be there. Away from that rain”, he laughs.

When he considers what life would be like without the service, Gerry says, “It would be difficult, if we didn’t have Sonas; not to have that space. It really brings happiness to my life.”

Sonas Social Centre, run by COPE Galway, offers a welcoming space for older residents in the Mervue community and beyond to drop in for tea with friends, meet new people, enjoy a healthy meal and take part in activities.

This story was first published in the COPE Galway 2023 Annual Report.