asked the Minister for Health if he is aware of the inability of voluntary groups to cope with the problem of loneliness among the elderly; and the plans his Department have for a State-assisted scheme which would provide interests, personal contacts and so on for the elderly in our society.
Ceisteanna—Questions. Oral Answers. - Needs of Elderly.
4.
I accept that loneliness can be a symptom of the isolation which many old people experience. I do not think that any scheme provided by either voluntary organisations or the State can be an effective substitute for the essential family and social contacts which everyone, including the elderly, needs.
Support for the elderly, especially for those living alone, is already a high priority for many voluntary organisations and for the health boards. This will continue to be the case. In addition, the Health Education Bureau will be launching a new campaign later this year to highlight the special problems of the elderly. The campaign will include advice and guidance on how some of the social and personal needs of the elderly can be met by the community.