New report identifies highs and lows of growing old in Ireland

The highs and lows of growing old in Ireland are identified in a new report out today.
A government survey on positive ageing finds satisfaction with life remains high among older people.
However, levels of medication are a worry, and levels of unmet ‘end of life care’ are running at 30 percent.
Minister of State for Older People Jim Daly says it’s important we understand how we age so that we can support people to age well, and live independently where possible.
Today’s report finds nine out of ten older people are confident they have someone they can rely on with 88% taking part in social activities every week.
96% of people over forty with an intellectual disability are involved in weekly social activities, but on the downside 85% are under-active.
58% of Irish Travellers over 40 have a chronic disease and almost a third report difficulty dressing or bathing.
The Minister says today’s report is an important platform for the voices of older people – and he’s urged all involved to do what they can to make ageing in Ireland a positive experience.