Vol. 488 No. 4
198 Mr. Callely asked the Minister for Health and Children the number and total value of nursing home subventions paid in 1997; the consideration, if any, given to other options for people who may be unable to remain in their own home; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [6361/98]
The statistical information requested is at present being collated and will be forwarded to the Deputy as soon as possible. The policy of the health services is that older people should be maintained in dignity and independence at home with the support of the community care services where necessary and where this is no longer possible, to ensure they have access to the best possible medical or long-term care. Various supports are available to older people to assist them with day to day living in their own communities for as long as possible, i.e. home help services, day centres, day hospitals, community nursing and periods of respite care. Older people may also choose to reside in sheltered accommodation, which may provide ancillary services.
Where a person has been assessed as requiring nursing home care a health board may offer that person accommodation in a health board institution providing nursing care or assist them with the cost of private home care. The wishes of individuals and their families are taken into account by a health board before any long-term care programmes are put in place.
