Written answers

Tuesday, 13 November 2012

Department of Health

Care of the Elderly

Photo of Arthur SpringArthur Spring (Kerry North-West Limerick, Labour)
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To ask the Minister for Health the projected increase in the over 65 year old population in the coming decade; if any funds or moneys are being set aside or are being planned to provide this section of the population with the future facilities and care that will be needed; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [49532/12]

Photo of Kathleen LynchKathleen Lynch (Cork North Central, Labour)
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Government policy is to support older people to live in dignity and independence in their own homes and communities for as long as possible. This objective is realised through a range of Home Care supports, or other measures such as Day or Respite Care facilities. These services are core to not only supporting the preferred wishes of many vulnerable older people , but also can alleviate pressures elsewhere in the wider care system. In addition, we also support access, as appropriate, to Long or Short-Term Residential Care.

The demand for these services, which are often delivered in partnership with non-statutory agencies, will continue as the demographics, and the complex needs, of older people change. For example, at present, there are approximately 535,000 people over age 65 (11% of total population). This is projected to rise to about 775,000 by 2021, 910,000 by 2026, and to around 1.4 million by 2041 (22% of the total population). The number over age 85 is expected to quadruple from approximately 110,000 in 2006 to 444,000 by 2041. The capacity of the Health Service Executive to provide approved levels of services for vulnerable older people is continually reviewed in the context of overall resources available at particular times. In this regard, 2012 has been a very challenging year for the health services generally, and the reality is that this will continue to be the position for the foreseeable future.

It remains the case, however, that investment in this area is significant by any standard, as the HSE Service Plan 2012 provided in the region of €1.4 billion overall for Services for Older People. This includes Long Term Residential Care, Home Care Supports and Day or Respite Care. All measures are being taken by the HSE to ensure that as many people as possible continue to receive appropriate services, in line with assessed individual needs. The position in relation to 2013, or beyond, is obviously subject to the annual Estimates process, in the light of evolving resources and services priorities for the health sector overall.

Notwithstanding the difficult economic situation to be overcome, we intend to carry through insofar as possible the commitments relating to older people contained in the agreed Programme for Government. These include a review of Fair Deal to consider, amongst other things, an extension of the scheme to community based services and to other sectors (Disability and Mental Health), together with its overall sustainability. The review will be completed in 2013. We will also complete the National Positive Ageing Strategy, so that older people are recognised, supported and enabled to live independent full lives. This measure will set the strategic tone for future years, across a number of Government Departments and agencies.

The Department of Health reviews on a regular basis the projected future requirements for the health service, including policies and services relating to older people. This process also takes account of relevant external studies or reports, which often can make a constructive contribution on how we as a society might meet the changing requirements of older people across all of Ireland in future years.

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