Ireland's first dedicated centre of excellence for successful ageing has been officially opened by the President, Michael D. Higgins.

The Mercer's Institute for Successful Ageing (MISA), which is located at St James's Hospital In Dublin, is the largest facility of its kind in Europe.

The purpose-built seven-storey building aims to provide coordinated care to both inpatients and outpatients. It includes 116 inpatient beds, rehabilitation units and continuing care units. It also provides early diagnostic and rapid access care clinics for up to 30,000 people per year.

The facility also includes a four-storey research building.

Commenting on the official opening, MISA director, Prof Rose Anne Kenny, described it as ‘an important milestone for Ireland'.

"Ireland's ageing population is growing at a fast pace and the establishment of one of Europe's largest centres dedicated to high-quality care for older people is key to ensuring that Ireland continues to lead the way when it comes to research and training in all aspects of health, policy and social care, as well as promoting wellness and independent living in the community," she said.

MISA cost around €50 million and was funded by the HSE, Atlantic Philanthropies, the Department of Health and St James's Hospital in conjunction with Trinity College Dublin.

*Pictured President Michael D.Higgins at the official opening of MISA on December 7