Health in Ireland: Key Trends 2012emphasises importance of planning for ageing population

In December 2012, the Department of Health of Health in Ireland has published a report: Key Trends 2012.  The report advises that the number of older people in Ireland is increasing significantly, with the numbers aged 65+ projected to almost double to over 1 million by 2035 and the greatest proportional increase will be in the 85+ age group. The report confirms that the proportion of those aged 85+ in long-stay care has increased by 20% during the period 2002 to 2011.

 Tadhg Daly, NHI CEO states: “The Health in Ireland; Key Trends 2012 report forms part of a growing body of evidence that underlines the significant challenges in ensuring that as a society we can provide nursing home care in such numbers that will be required to meet the care requirements of our ageing population. The private and voluntary nursing home sector is well placed to meet these significant challenges but must be provided with a framework that will support them in the delivery of care and in meeting the increased demand. The review of the Fair Deal scheme presents an opportunity to introduce a sophisticated funding model that will ensure private and voluntary nursing homes can meet the specialized care requirements of older persons requiring long-term residential care and must provide clear policy direction that recognizes the increasing demand that this report and other reports confirm.”