The COVID-19 pandemic and our response to it has demanded huge sacrifices across all of society, and very noticeably in the area of human interaction and connectedness. The importance of human connection is emphasised in a recent report, “Loneliness and social isolation in the COVID-19 Pandemic among the over 70s: Data from The Irish Longitudinal Study on Ageing (TILDA) and ALONE”. This report, launched in July 2020, highlights that measures to reduce the spread of COVID-19, such as social distancing, self-isolating and cocooning among the over 70s, have disrupted familiar routines and social interactions, across multiple groups including among older adults. Positive social relationships and interactions are important to personal wellbeing at all ages, and can act as protective factors against emotional distress, cognitive decline, and physical disability. Conversely, feelings of loneliness and social isolation can be harmful to our wellbeing.
A change in the way we live our lives on such a scale as this has demanded a whole of government response, and I would like to highlight some of the initiatives and supports that have been put in place across departments. Key interventions include funding for the senior alert scheme delivered by Pobal, which enables older people to live securely in their homes through the provision of personal monitored alarms. The Department of Community and Rural Development and the Islands as part of its Covid-19 action plan has increased supports to older people through a partnership with Alone for a crisis telephone support line and follow-on support for those needing it. A new befriending phone call initiative will support participants in the senior alert scheme, which is operated in conjunction with Pobal and Alone.
As part of the government response to the COVID-19 crisis, local authorities have established a COVID-19 Community Call Forum. This local forum works with State agencies including the HSE and community and voluntary groups to provide supports or services to any vulnerable person who needs them. The forum brings together different organisations to provide important services like collection and delivery of essential items like food, ‘meals-on-wheels’, household items, fuel or medicine (in line with guidance), and support for those experiencing social isolation or who are medically vulnerable.
The most recent restrictions put in place will no doubt be challenging for all of us, but particularly those living alone. With this in mind, the measures include a 'social bubble' to support those who risk isolation for the duration of Level 5.
People in certain categories can form a support bubble with one other household, ideally in the same locality but it can be outside the 5 kilometre limit. Those who can form a support bubble include: those alone with children under the age of 18, those living alone and with mental health challenges, those sharing parenting or custody arrangements, those living with a partner who has dementia and needs full-time care, and those who live alone and have a carer or carers who supports them.
If the Deputy wishes to clarify any aspect of this issue, he is welcome to contact me separately, and I will be happy to follow up his concerns, as appropriate.
