The report, The Years Ahead — A policy for the Elderly is the first official report to recommend comprehensive measures relating to the provision of respite places for the elderly. The report emphasised the importance of additional day care places and respite facilities to offer carers a break from caring during the day or for short and regular periods of time.
The overriding consideration in applying charges is that persons with means who are in receipt of long term residential or respite care should make a contribution towards the cost of their maintenance. The statutory basis for the charges is provided by the Institutional Assistance Regulations.