Over-60s will constitute nearly a third of Northern Ireland's population by 2036. 'Priorities for Older People' asks whether current government policies and strategies can cater to the needs of this growing demographic.

A leaflet, called 'Have they got your priorities right?', is being distributed to older people’s groups and forums across Northern Ireland. It suggests questions older people might want to ask their local candidates during canvassing. 

Mr Duane Farrell, Head of Policy, Research and Communications at Help the Aged, said:

'Older people are twice as likely to vote as younger age groups. They want to be heard, and to make a contribution to the decisions that will impact their lives. 

'Older people’s issues should be given their rightful place at the heart of democratic government'

'We hope that 'Priorities for Older People' will be embraced by the political parties as a means of ensuring that older people’s issues are given their rightful place at the heart of democratic government.'

The priorities set out in the document are:

• The appointment of an independent Commissioner for Older People, with the powers to promote and safeguard the rights of older people.
• A commitment to financial assistance for low income pensioners, as water charges and rates are introduced that will squeeze limited incomes.
• Research into the factors contributing to excess winter deaths among older people, and the introduction of free central heating and insulation measures for all pensioner households. 
• The publication of the long-promised Community Safety Strategy for Older People.
• Research into elder abuse in Northern Ireland, and the production of an action plan to tackle the issue.
• Free personal care, including personal hygiene, dressing, mobility assistance and feeding.
• The improvement of public transport services in rural communities. 

Help the Aged has recently launched a campaign against elder abuse - find out how you can help.