Tag Archives: older people

AGE Action, Ireland’s leading advocacy organisation for older people and ageing, is offering older people the opportunity to improve their digital literacy skills so they can be more informed, connected and independent. The Age Action ‘Getting Started’ programme is five hours of free one-to-one tutoring for older people who want to learn or develop their skills on a smartphone, tablet, or computer. Age Action will match people with a volunteer who will tutor them over the phone. The programme is learner led meaning the class is designed for the person to learn what they want to learn. Typically, classes cover topics like how to set up an email, how to download an app, and how to use video to meet friends or family. Age Action will also send learners a 40-page booklet with images to help with tutoring sessions. People can find out more and register for the Age Action Getting Started KIT classes by calling Age Action on 01 …

A consultation process in respect of establishing a new statutory homecare scheme is to launched in a matter of months, Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Helen McEntee has announced. Also a review by the Health Research Board (HRB) of the way in which homecare services are funded and regulated in four other European countries, which was commissioned by the Department of Health in 2016, is to be published shortly. Minister McEntee said, “My priority is to ensure that our older people get the best care possible. For many that care can be provided in their own homes, surrounded by the people and communities that they love. Unfortunately, as a country, the only statutory scheme we have in place at present to care for our elderly is the Nursing Homes Support Scheme, a Fair Deal. I am determined to change this and to establish a new statutory homecare scheme. “Homecare is an increasingly important part of the …

Senior Help Line has noted an increase in calls from older people in recent days who are concerned about Budget 2015, which will be unveiled on this Tuesday. Callers are worried about money matters, potential increases to the cost of living and further cuts to vital services in their areas. They are concerned about how the budget will affect them and there is a fear that further allowances or benefits will be lost. Many older people are finding it increasingly difficult to make ends meet, Senior Help Line noted. Data released in the Global Age Watch Index 2014 showed that the incidence of poverty among older people is on the rise in Ireland.  The report indicated that old age poverty has reached 7.6pc which is a 12.1pc increase on previous years. Current Senior Help Line experience affirms this increased poverty among older people. The non – contributory state pension offers recipients a basic rate of €219 per week, and with …