Dáil Éireann debate -
Wednesday, 7 May 2003

Vol. 566 No. 1

Written Answers. - Care of the Elderly.

Jerry Cowley

Question:

424 Dr. Cowley asked the Minister for Health and Children his views on whether the service provided by east Mayo rest and care homes association is of great benefit to the community by allowing people to be boarded out in a homely atmosphere; his further views on whether reducing the number that can be accommodated to six is making it more difficult for those involved to ensure an adequate number of beds for the numbers requiring this valuable service; if he will consider increasing the numbers that can be accommodated in any single dwelling; if a system can be devised whereby someone who goes into hospital does not lose their place; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [11495/03]

Minister of State at the Department of Health and Children (Mr. Callely)

The boarding out scheme is governed by the Boarding Out Regulations 1993 and the maximum number of clients allowed under the legislation in any one household is six. The philosophy of care of the scheme promotes empowerment of and respect for older people. The care provided is holistic and appropriate. It assures the choice, privacy and independence of the older person.

As the provision of health services in the Mayo area is the responsibility of the Western Health Board, my Department has made inquiries of the board in relation to the east Mayo rest and care homes association and has been advised that the service provided by the association is valuable to those people who require minimum care and support in a family unit. The board has indicated that clients will not lose their place in boarding out accommodation following admission to hospital unless their medical or physical condition has deteriorated to the extent that they are deemed no longer suitable for such accommodation. The board has further advised that there is currently no waiting list for boarding out in the Mayo area.

Question No. 425 answered with Question No. 130.