Keeping older people in the loop

THE importance of providing information to older people to ensure they are claiming and in receipt of their entitlements cannot be over-emphasised.

That is according to Paul Woulfe, manager with the countywide Citizens’ Information Service, at the launch of a new information booklet for older people.

“This publication, which has been updated to take into account a number of changes in various schemes and services, has proven very popular with organisations and general public. The information book, which is mainly for people aged 60 and over, will also be of interest to anyone who is thinking about early retirement,” said Mr Woulfe.

He outlined that the booklet aims to explain, as clearly and as simply as possible, the various cash payments and other services available to people over 60. It is available in large print format, in Braille, on audiotape or on floppy disc upon request from any Citizens’ Information Centre.

Topics covered in the free publication include payments for carers and older people, early retirement, benefits in kind, personal pensions, health services, housing, transport and travel and also a section on legal matters and further sources of information.
“People’s rights can so often stand or fall on the quality of information and the level of access to information, available to them. Information is power and it is important that the elderly are kept abreast of changes and it’s this reason that the book focuses on issues of central importance to them,” Mr Woulfe said.

Citizens’ Information Centres assist people to get entitlements by explaining schemes and services, helping fill in forms and, if necessary, contacting Government departments or other agencies on their behalf. The centres also help people who are appealing against decisions. An important feature of the service is the comprehensive nature of the information.

Further information is available from Ennis CIC at 0761 075260 or Shannon CIC at 0761 07 5370. People can also log on to www.citizensinformation.ie or call 0761 074000, from Monday to Friday, 9am to 9pm.