Government policy and older people

Older people are the main users of health and social care services, but services have not always adequately addressed need (Department of Health, 2001). The past 50 years have witnessed many changes and reforms in health and the social welfare state that have directly affected older people and the level and type of help and support they can expect from the state. Nurses need to understand these changes, as the implications of policy development will have a direct impact on the people we are working with. Nurses also have a part to play in shaping and informing policy development.