Active Retirement Ireland (ARI) is a voluntary organisation for older people with a national membership of over 24,500 people and over 550 local associations. Members age range from 50 -100 years and cover a range of socio-economic backgrounds. The organisation is run by voluntary committees at local, regional and national level giving approximately 4200 volunteers. All the activities are aimed at keeping older people active and well. Active Retirement Associations are a lifeline for many older people who would otherwise feel isolated and lonely.