Service and Support Options
The majority of older people wish to:
- Maintain their independence
- Remain living in their own home
- Maintain social contacts
- Lead a dignified and meaningful lifestyle and
- Continue their role as a valued member of their community
Depending on you or your relatives needs you may be able to get services to remain living in your own home and community. For some older people and their families such altermatives may provide the required support that will prevent or delay the need for nursing home care.
It is important to learn about the services and financial supports available to you or you’re relative in considering this option.
For more information go to:
Citizens Information: Checklist Entitlements for Older People
Before considering placement in a nursing home, explore the possiblity of using alternative services or programmes that permit an older person receive the care in his or her own home in the community setting.
The HSE provides a broad range of services for older people in the community, including in-patient acute services, step down and convalescent care, day services, rehabilitation, community services, home care and home helps. If you need services for yourself or for an older person you know, choose from the options below, to find out more about the services the HSE provide, and how you can access them. If you have any questions, you can also call the HSE infoline on 1850 24 1850. The infoline is open from Monday - Saturday, 8am - 8pm, for the price of a local call.
For more information go to:
http://www.hse.ie/eng/Find_a_Service/Older_People_Services/
Related Links:
Tips for Healthy Living - How people can maintain their health as they get older by keeping active, eating well, and more...
Benefits and Financial Entitlements - details of the various schemes and benefits in place for older people, like Medical Cards...
Community Services - a description of the services the HSE provides for people who live in their own homes but still need a little help
Residental Care - information about respite care and public and private nursing and residential care services all over Ireland
A Fair Deal - information on the new Nursing Homes Support Scheme
Carers and Relatives - helpful information for those who are caring for a family member or loved one
Protecting Older People - how to spot elder abuse and what to do if you are worried
Useful Contacts - other organisations and services that are there to help older people
Older People Services where you live - a list of older people services provided in your local health office
