asked the Minister for Health the surveys which have been done in the last five years by his Department to determine the existing needs of the elderly in our society.
Written Answers. - Care of Elderly.
227.
A survey has been carried out of patients in geriatric units, welfare homes, district hospitals and private nursing homes for long-stay patients. The results of this survey are being used by health boards in planning services for the elderly.
228.
asked the Minister for Health the percentage of the population over 65 covered by (a) meals on wheels programmes, and (b) home help services.
The approximate percentage of the population over 65 who are in receipt of meals-on-wheels and home help services is 2.1 per cent and 1.4 per cent respectively.
229.
asked the Minister for Health the total number of people over 60 presently in institutional care.
It is estimated that the total number of persons aged 60 years and over who are resident in geriatric hospitals and homes, in psychiatric hospitals and in residential centres for the mentally handicapped is of the order of 20,000.
230.
asked the Minister for Health the total number of geriatric cases presently in psychiatric hospitals; and the total percentage of patients in psychiatric hospitals that this figure represents.
The number of patients in psychiatric hospitals on the 31 December 1977 was 14,352. Approximately one-third of these patients were aged 65 years and over.
231.
asked the Minister for Health the number of beds available in welfare homes for the elderly throughout the State.
The total number of places available in welfare homes is 1,217.