This is despite the fact that 37% of new cases of breast cancer last year were found among the over-65 population.

But rather than concentrate on the negative, Positive Ageing Week exists to try to dispel any negativity associated with ageing, and accentuate the positive impact that older people have on society.

Now in its fifth year, the Week, which is organised by advocacy group Age Action Ireland, will take place between September 28 and October 6. It will involve more than 400 events, which will take place across Ireland north and south, with more than 100 events taking place in the six designated "Positive Ageing Week Towns" of Athy, Ballymun, Castlebar, Galway City, Midleton and Monaghan.

Age Action is urging all community groups, clubs and older people's organisations to join in Ireland's largest celebration of ageing, by organising or supporting an event during Positive Ageing Week.

"It is an opportunity for older people to enjoy themselves and for communities to recognise the contribution which older people have made, and continue to make, in their localities, " said Age Action chief executive Robin Webster.

Possible events could include coffee mornings, music sessions, table quizzes, bingo or dance.

While there is no "flagship" event taking place during Positive Ageing Week, a definite highlight will be an exhibition of photographs which will challenge some negative public perceptions of ageing and older people. Having already toured some of the Positive Ageing Towns, the exhibition will find a home in House 29, Merrion Square (the Georgian Museum) for the duration of the Week.

Positive Ageing Week will also see the launch of a cross border project which will take place at a conference in Monaghan on Monday, October 1, involving the 12 border counties in Ireland.

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For further information on Positive Ageing Week, contact Age Action Ireland on 01 4756989 or visit www. ageaction. ie