Identification of the needs of elderly people in Northern Ireland

This paper presents the results of a survey on persons over the age of 65 in Northern Ireland. One of the aims of this research was to identify and measure the needs of the elderly population in order to develop a Programme of Care. It would seem logical that the problems of the elderly tend to increase with age. Since the population is becoming older and given the commitment to community care, this will have serious implications for the National Health and Social Services. The present survey was carried out using a questionnaire to extract details concerning the individuals' mental state, ability for self-care and household duties, mobility, accommodation, social activities, general health, strain imposed on others and current support from the statutory services. The results for each category were then presented for 5 age-groups: 65-69, 70-74, 75-79, 80-84 and 85+. Specific problems in relation to home help provision and social facilities such as day care are also discussed.