Age Action has expressed concern at the number of notifications of injury and abuse contained in this morning’s report from HIQA of its nursing home inspection service.
Link: Analysis of HIQA regulation of nursing homes published
The organisation also said that more home supports would enable thousands of older people to avoid going into nursing homes.
Justin Moran, Head of Advocacy and Communications at Age Action, said: “We welcome the robust and independent monitoring that HIQA provides, but we are seriously concerned that there were more than 4,000 notifications of injury in 2014 – more than ten a day – and 357 allegations of abuse.
“We need to see improvements, as HIQA says in its report, in risk management and safer care for residents in nursing homes.”
HIQA defines such injuries as those requiring medical or hospital treatment. A total of 909 cases required admission to a hospital.
Mr Moran continued: “But there is a much bigger question to be asked. Why are so many Irish people in nursing homes in the first place? Figures published by Alone last week indicate that the proportion of older people in nursing homes is 35 per cent greater than the EU average.
“Many older people need quality nursing home care, but thousands could be at home with their families and in their communities if the proper supports were provided. That’s what they want. It’s what the Government’s National Positive Ageing Strategy promises. And it’s better value for money.
“The Government must reverse the cuts to home care services in October’s budget.”
