The problems faced by older residents of the Border counties in the areas of health, social services and transport are being exacerbated by the north/south divide, a report launched this morning has claimed.
Elderly people living in remote areas close to the Border were found to be living with insufficient and infrequent transport services and many had to travel long distances for medical attention because they could not access services closer to home as they were on the other side of the Border.
The report by social researcher Brian Harvey is the culmination of the EU-funded Positive Ageing Cross Border project. The project was run by Age Action and Age Concern Northern Ireland, with funding from the European Union INTERREG III programme.
Rural isolation was another issue highlighted in the report, as many elderly people feel increasingly cut off from everyday life because of the decrease in localised banking, post office and pharmacy services. Crime and public safety were other concerns it highlighted.
To address the issues, the researcher recommends a cross boarder approach to the provision of health, educational and social services, the extension of rural transport services, assistance for isolated individuals and it also calls for dialogue between voluntary organisations, the PSNI and An Garda Siochana.
It said the Republic's next strategy for older people should include a common chapter on Northern Ireland
The report is being discussed at a Positive Ageing Cross Border project meeting at the Hillgrove Hotel, Monaghan today.
