Alzheimer’s Ireland will host four Alzheimer’s Memory Walk events this year in Cork as part of the nationwide Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva, taking place on Sunday, September 21st, 2025, in honour of World Alzheimer’s Day. The Cork walks will take place in Mallow, Macroom, Bantry and Blackrock, bringing together families, friends, and communities to walk in solidarity with the 64,000 people living with dementia in Ireland—and to remember those who are no longer with us.
Now in its sixth year, the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva is more than just a fundraiser—it’s a celebration of connection, compassion, and community. In 2024, nearly 3,500 walkers nationwide raised over €150,000 to support vital services including Daycare, Support Groups, Family Carer Training, Social Clubs, Memory Cafés, and the ASI National Helpline.
Mallow Memory Walk – Starting at Mallow Castle Gates, 11am
Led by Lena O’Sullivan, Nurse Manager of St. Mary’s Daycare Centre, the Mallow Memory Walk supported by Aviva will follow a 3.5km route.
“It’s such a special opportunity to walk in honour of all our incredible clients who attend our centre,” said Lena. “It’s a privilege to care for them, and the support we give is returned in the most meaningful ways. This walk is a chance for us all to celebrate that care, raise awareness, and build a more dementia inclusive community together.”
Pat O’Connor, whose wife is living with dementia, added:
“The care, support, and kindness we’ve received from St. Mary’s Day Centre in Mallow was wonderful. Walking together is a powerful way to honour that support and help ensure others can benefit from it too.”
Macroom Memory Walk – Starting at Macroom Castle Gates, 11am
The Macroom walk will be led by Nicola Canty, Local Champion and member of Friends of ASI Macroom, along a scenic 3.2km route.
“It’s been lovely to watch this event grow locally over the past few years,” said Nicola. “Memory Walk is not only a chance to share memories but to create new ones together with family, friends and everyone in our community here in Macroom.”
Aindrias Moynihan TD, whose father had dementia, shared:
“Taking part in the Macroom Memory Walk is a way to give back and to help ensure other families have access to the same support we received. It made a real difference to our family and to Dad’s quality of life.”
Blackrock Memory Walk supported by Aviva – Starting at Bessboro Day Centre, 11am
The Blackrock Memory Walk supported by Aviva will begin at the Alzheimer Society of Ireland’s Day Centre in Bessboro and follow a 5km route along Blackrock Railway Greenway, led by Brendan Walshe, ASI Cork Branch Treasurer.
“Memory Walk is a chance to share memories and create new ones together,” said Brendan. “Here in Blackrock we will walk together in support of those living with dementia and their loved ones.”
Maggie Moynihan, whose mother is living with dementia, added:
“Walking together is a joyful way to celebrate the support we’ve received and help build a more dementia inclusive community.”
With nearly 40 Memory Walks taking place across Ireland, the Alzheimer’s Memory Walk supported by Aviva is a powerful reminder of the strength found in community. Whether you walk in memory of a loved one, in support of someone living with dementia, or simply to show solidarity—your support makes a difference.
Bantry Memory Walk supported by Aviva – Starting at the Green Area at Bantry Bay Port, 11am
The Bantry Bay Port Memory Walk supported by Aviva has a 1.5km or 3km option for everyone to enjoy.
Kathryn Kingston, Local Champion for Bantry is looking forward to the event, commenting, “I would urge the local community to join us to mark World Alzheimer’s Day and take a walk together on Sunday, September 21st.”
Cork Memory Walk Event Details
- Date: Sunday, September 21st, 2025
- Time: All walks begin at 11am
- Locations:
- Mallow Castle Gates (3.5km)
- Macroom Castle Gates (3.2km)
- Bessboro Day Centre, Blackrock (5km)
- Bantry Bay Port (1.5km/3km)
To find out more and to register, please visit www.memorywalk.ie
