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DECEMBER 2007 SENIOR YEARS

Repairs that care: Residential communities IT initiative Cyprus Reaching out to the more vulnerable The face of residential care is changing - Minister Tom Kitt tells us why the The Mediterranean island of Cyprus is the members of society is vital, says TV's maintaining one's independent life is now Information Society can bring many perfect destination for some much-needed Duncan Stewart. the main focus. benefits to older people. winter sun! Page 4 Page 6 Page 8 Page 14 2 THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT

Ireland is ageing and the country is faced with the challenge of meeting the needs of a changing society.

Mediaplanet is pleased to publish the first Currently 11% of the population is aged over-65. The CSO predicts this will rise to edition of Senior Years. Its our aim is to help 15% by 2021 and 20% by 2036. By 2050 it is estimated there will be more people in older adults achieve and maintain the high- est quality of life possible and we’ll be taking Ireland aged over-65 than under-18. look at their unique issues and potentials.

ut is this a threat or an oppor- mitments to older people. Of course, day care centres, rural transport and CONTENTS tunity? That depends on how these important building blocks for meals on wheels services are essen- Repairs that care pg. 4 Bour planners and politicians the future must not prevent action on tial if older people are to be enabled prepare for these changes and current issues and problems. The to live full and satisfying lives in Care in the home pg. 5 how we, as a society, treat our older acid test of Brian Cowen’s budget their own homes. Revised scheme boosts people. today (December 5) will be the Society also has to tackle age dis- mobility around the home pg. 5 The issue of an ageing population impact on the quality of life of Ire- crimination if older people are to be Ireland follows suit with is not unique to Ireland. In fact, we land’s 480,000 pensioners next year. allowed to participate fully in their residential communities pg. 6 are still the babies of the EU. Some Will it provide adequate pension community. Age discrimination not Nursing home care pg. 6 19% of the Italian population is income to remove the risk of poverty only penalises older people, but also IT initiative increases over-65, with the Germans (18%), and proper services to enable all prevents communities accessing a access for older users pg. 7 and Swedes, Belgians and Spanish older people stay in their own valuable source of experience and Robin Webster, Chief Executive, IT is for everyone pg. 7 (17%) also coming to terms with age- homes? volunteers. Age Action Ireland. ing issues. Pensions and services are among Age discrimination must be A digital guiding hand pg. 8 Ireland has begun planning for the major concerns for older people. removed from the workplace. hard to improve the plight of all Silver surfers pg. 8 the changing needs of its changing With half of the current pensioners Mandatory retirement ages should be older people, Age Action believes Not hard for hearing pg. 9 population. The new programme for depending solely on the State abolished and more flexible working that governments and communities, A vision of age pg. 11 government includes a commitment Pension, increases in this payment and retirement options offered to all working together, can make Ireland to a National Positive Ageing Strate- hold the key to lifting older people workers. the best place in the world to grow It’s a process to plan a funeral pg. 12 gy, the government recently pub- out of poverty. Despite the impediments, many old in. Finally have the time to travel pg. 13 lished its Green Paper on pensions The majority of older people also older people are living satisfying Cyprus: and the social partnership agree- want to remain living in their own lives at the heart of their communi- Robin Webster, Chief Executive, The real winter wonderland pg. 14 ment Towards 2016 also has com- homes. Services such home helps, ties. As an organisation which works Age Action Ireland. Norway pg. 15

SENIOR YEARS – A TITLE FROM MEDIAPLANET Project Manager: Auria Bohn Layout: Pontén & Engwall AB Text: BeCreative • Prepress: Jez MacBean Print: Irish Independent For more information on Mediaplanet supplements: Sigurd M. Gran +353 1 2409 319 MP Publishing House Ltd Reg. no. 439216 Registered in Ireland Directors: Sigurd Midthun Gran (Norway), Richard Båge (Sweden)

The Difference Between Counting the Years and Living Them

Being able to live at home can be one of the most important comforts in an elderly person’s life. Because family members cannot always be there, we take great pride in making sure our Caregivers are there to help. Home Instead Senior Care helps older adults with everyday tasks that allow them to live independently, wherever they call home. The quality of care, affordability and accountability provided by our team have earned a deep level of trust amongst our clients, their families and thousands of health, medical and social services organisations across the world. It is also important to note that we help our clients get tax relief on the cost of care provided. Our Services From a couple of hours a day up to 24 hours a day, seven days a week, our Caregivers provide a ready smile whilst offering these services: - Companionship - Personal Assistance - Respite Care - Light Housekeeping - Local Transportation - Dementia Care - Meal Preparation - Convalescence Support Our Caregivers We place great emphasis on matching our clients personality background and interests with those of our Caregivers. All our Caregivers provide four references, undergo Garda clearance, and are directly employed by ourselves. We handle all their Tax, PRSI, Holidays and Insurance Entitlements. At that stage our CAREGivers go through a multi phase training programme. reland s Trusted Source I ’ Dublin, Cork, Galway, Wexford, Wicklow. Contact 1890-930013 of Home Care for Seniors

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Repairs that care Photo: Lensmen An innovative service which provides a minor DIY and home visitation service for older people has been launched by broadcaster and architect Duncan Stewart.

“There are a lot of older people who “Volunteers will go into the homes fessionally and at a fair price. To back live alone that are facing a major fuel of people who have issues concern- up that confidence, the programme poverty issue. Every winter, they are ing energy, as well as everyday prob- also offers a 'QuoteCheck' service, living in their homes with a huge lems such as small repairs, that peo- where a knowledgeable volunteer can deficiency of heating, and living in ple on their own find hard to get assess the cost of a repair so that the very unhealthy conditions,” sighs done themselves, like plumbing and client can have a better idea of how Duncan Stewart, reflecting on the so on, and help to fix them.” much is reasonable to pay. annual crisis that affects many older The Care and Repair programme is “The concept is designed to spread people as the cold months set in. currently in operation in Dublin to local communities across the “We are going into an energy cri- postal districts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9 and country. There are so many people Broadcaster Duncan Stewart launches Age Action’s Care and Repair Service. The home DIY and visitation service for older people, sponsored by Irish Life, is currently running in Galway. Volunteers, especially sis, where costs are probably going to 12 at the moment, with a network who do have skills, and can do vol- those with DIY skills are needed. Also pictured are (from left) Kevin Murphy, Irish Life, Dara Duane and double. As prices increase, so does also working in Galway city. The untary work. There are a lot of peo- Tony Gately, Care and Repair Galway, Carol Pemberton, Irish Life, and Robin Webster, Age Action. fuel poverty, and more and more success of the first two projects will ple out there who do want to help, people are going to suffer.” lead to a nationwide rollout of the and give some of their time. It can be in one room, as they cannot afford to DIY and home repair skills would be A prominent environmental archi- scheme over the next three years. anything from putting a lock on a heat the whole house. The rest of the welcome. A commitment to just one tect, as well as Ireland's favourite Volunteers will carry out repairs door, to fixing a light, or repairing a home is absolutely freezing, and the job each month is asked, with train- building expert, Duncan recently and minor tasks, such as installing curtain rail. room they are in is completely sealed ing and insurance provided. launched Age Action's Care and smoke alarms, tacking down carpet, “The focus of the group, therefore, up, with poor ventilation, as any Clients can also make themselves Repair programme. painting, or changing light bulbs. is to focus on the small jobs in the vents are usually blocked as a way of known directly to Age Action. Any “The Care and Repair programme The care aspect of the service home that need to be done, and then conserving energy wherever possi- older person who has a small repair is run by Age Action, with support brings a friendly face into a home, during the time spent with the person, ble. This leads to an increased danger job can get in touch to receive assis- from Irish Life,” says Duncan. “It will providing important social contact identify if there are other problems. of carbon monoxide poisoning and tance. The service itself is free of involve older, skilled people who and helping to prevent isolation and “I have personally seen some other problems. It’s a big issue at the charge, although there is an agreed have retired, and do have the time to vulnerability. incredible situations with older moment, but it is going to get even charge for any materials that are spare to use those skills to help other Care and Repair also operates a reg- women and men living by them- bigger in the future.” used, and voluntary donations are older people. Anyone with abilities ister of reliable trades people for big- selves and who have no heating at all Volunteers for Care and Repair are always welcomed. ■ in building and construction can get ger jobs. A recommendation for serv- in their homes, or they have one-bar now required, particularly in the Dublin Care and Repair can be contact involved. Younger people can also ices gives people the confidence to heaters or incredibly energy-expen- Docklands area and in Galway city. on lo-call 1890 369 369, or at volunteer. know that a job will be completed pro- sive sources of fuel. They are living Anyone with a reasonable level of [email protected] THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT 5

Revised scheme boosts Care in the home mobility around the home Whilst we take living in our own homes for granted, the effects of getting older may vast amount of products and also provide details on high-end put that independence at risk. Up until fairly recently, anyone labelled with the services are now available to services also. ‘infirm’ tag would have removed from their own homes with little consideration given Ahelp people to continue to When people purchase any item, lead independent lives in their own regardless of its use, cost is always a to the psychological effects of being uprooted and having their personal responsibility homes. With the focus on disability major factor. Unfortunately, the given to someone else. firmly on what CAN be achieved, same is true for customers of assis- rather than what cannot, getting tive products. extra help with certain daily tasks need not be a major problem. If mobility around the house is a problem for you or someone you care about, knowing what help exists can be an issue. With the huge choice on the market, it can be difficult to decide which product can deliver the maximum benefit. That word ‘mar- ket’ also brings its own problem. Is the product that will help the most also the most affordable? Assist Ireland, developed by the Moira Fraser, Assist Ireland Citizens Information Board, provides comprehensive help and advice in “People can purchase such aids how to access such products and and appliances either privately, or services, detailing what is available through their local authorities with and how to get it. grant assistance,” says Fraser. “Assist Ireland has a huge data- The recently launched Mobility base on aids and appliances, most of Aids Grant Scheme for example was which are used in the home environ- designed to ‘compliment’ the system oday, it is generally acknowl- the client requires. If she required, ment,” says Moira Fraser. With a by fast-tracking applications for edged that older people should she would prepare her breakfast, huge product catalogue available funds for smaller, one-off items. “The Tbe able to continue to live in before helping her down the stairs. online, the organisation can provide Mobility Aids Grant Scheme has a the homes they worked to provide for “One of the things that older peo- guidance on both small items to limit of €6000, so if you just want as long as possible. With a greater ple may find difficult is to change a major systems requiring adaptive one item, or small adaptation work, awareness of the fact that care needs bed, with the pulling and dragging of building work in the home. this scheme will speed-up the to take into account all of a person’s sheets, so the carer will change the “Most of our calls and queries are process. For simple things like a needs, both physically and mentally, bedclothes once or twice a week. about day-to-day living aids – things grab-rail, or changing a bath, this efforts to allow people to lead as She’ll put on a wash, do some iron- to help people get up and down scheme will help to provide such independent a life as possible have ing, vacuuming, dusting, and so on. stairs, changing a bath into a level- assistance and enable people to taken become recognised as a “Most older people like to eat a access shower, and so on,” continues access minor adaptations relatively favoured solution for all concerned. main meal in the middle of the day, Fraser. However, Assist Ireland can quickly,” says Fraser. ■ Indeed, as our older population so the carer will prepare a hot, nutri- increases, such solutions will have to tious lunch, as well as preparing a become the norm, in order to reduce sandwich, soup or salad for later on the burden on both public and pri- in the day. In a morning’s visit, the vate care facilities. carer has helped the client to prepare However, just because a person for the whole day. may find that she is unable to per- “Other things the carer can do is to form everyday tasks as easily as she help with exercise, take the client out used to, this does not mean that inde- of the house for appointments or pendent home living is not possible. social visits, and so on.” Home care, also known as home One aspect of a daily visit by a help, is a service that can ensure that caregiver is that of providing compa- people continue to maintain their ny to a person. With many widowed lifestyle despite the physical prob- people living alone, women in par- lems brought about by getting older. ticular, seeing a friendly face each Ed Murphy of Home Instead Senior Care “We provide a trusted range of day can provide a huge boost to their services to older people to allow confidence and outlook. them to continue to be independent “To take one example of a client, “Companionship is a huge area of and to live in their homes for longer the carer would start the day by consideration. With people living than otherwise may be possible,” bringing her a daily newspaper, alone, just to have someone in the says Ed Murphy of Home Instead before helping her take a shower or a house to discuss the daily news, or to Senior Care. A private care organisa- bath,” says Murphy. “Then she deal with issues or challenges, or just tion with networks throughout the would perhaps get her clothes ready, to have someone to ask an opinion of world, Home Instead provides care provide clean towels or whatever, – that companionship is hugely on many levels for its clients. depending on how much assistance important.” ■

Benefits of using a private Provider. • They handle the administration of payroll, payroll whether 3 hours a week or 24/7, 365 days a year. They taxes, PRSI, holidays and employers & public liability can expand or reduce hours as the client’s needs change. insurance. • Family harmony is maintained by having an outside • The service includes a free in-home consultation and professional rather than some family members having continues with ongoing status reports and dialogue to take the full responsibility of care. with client’s family. • They have a bank of Carers and so can provide care on • Because you pay privately, you decide the hours, short notice. 6 THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT

Ireland follows suite with Nursing home care Care of older people has changed radically in Ireland residential communities over the past few years. As an economy that has both delivered to families fiscal rewards and increased time Hugely popular in countries such as the United States and Australia for many years, pressure, older people who require care are now not nec- retirement communities are now being developed here in Ireland. essarily able to rely on their children and other relatives to provide that support. sually comprised of a group emphasised the importance of own- of around a hundred flats and ing ones own home, and staying hen independent living is TD: There needs to be an independ- Uhouses, homes are designed there for as long as possible. Howev- no longer viable, private ent regulator. The Health Service to meet the needs of retired people of er, changes in lifestyles here mean Wnursing home care is one Executive (HSE) is ‘wearing a num- varying needs. that, for many older people, this is option. With perceptions having ber of hats’ in the debate – they pur- Unusually, in particular for the not always a desirable option. changed radically, nursing homes chase care from the private sector, Irish concept of retirement, many One of the major advantages of a can provide both the care and atten- they provide care in their own units, such communities are targeted at retirement community development tion that is needed in order to ensure and they are also the inspectorate. people from the age of 55, rather is that 24-hour security is provided, a continued standard of living with We have been campaigning for quite than 60 or 65, as might be expected with the inclusion perhaps of a main the extra support that may be a number of years for an independ- here. gate to deter unauthorised visitors. required. ent inspectorate. The INHO is not the Very distinct from a nursing home, Knowing that security is provided, However, with hospital beds occu- regulator. retirement communities offer a large and help is available at the touch of a pied by patients who may be better- degree of independent living, albeit button or from a phone call provides served by care within a nursing home DJ: Cost is another major issue. Do with the provision of specific servic- many people with confidence. environment, factors such as the you think that private nursing home es in order to appeal to those who Medical care is another important availability of care and how much it care is too expensive? want to continue to live in their own provision of retirement communities. costs to provide are still major fac- TD: There is no way that a high stan- homes, but do not necessarily want Many have private nursing home tors to consider. dard of care can be delivered with all of the responsibility of caring for care close by - even if a person does Tadgh Daly is the chair of the Irish some of the rates that are being paid a property. not require that level of care, it exists Nursing Homes Organisation (INHO), by the HSE at the moment. Value for “A well-run retirement village as a facility if a problem should arise. and is well aware of the current need money is important, but we shouldn’t gives people back the most important Being able to summon a nurse or for both increased provision of care confuse that with an attack on the thing over which they have control,” other medical personnel is also a and for clear guidelines in how to dignity and wellbeing of older people. says Henry Burrows of Glendale major benefit. implement it. Care is an expensive commodity. Estate. “They do not have control Security and care are probably the Private nursing home care is still over their health, but they do have two main attractions of choosing to DJ: Is nursing home care provision in cheaper than public nursing home control over their time. We give peo- live in a retirement community. Ireland of a good standard? care. A recent report that we pub- ple that time.” However, just as important is the TD: The vast majority of nursing lished with Age Action found that Burrow’s development in Tullow, social aspect – the word ‘community’ homes operate to a very high stan- private care cost around €1700 per Co. Carlow is one that stands com- Henry Burrows, Glendale Estates means just that. dard; the difficulty at the moment is week, whereas the cost of keeping parison to communities overseas. As Irish life changes faster that there are no specific national someone in a public bed is anywhere Offering such facilities as home care their own homes,” says Burrows. than many people would like to standards [of care]. Current regula- between €4000 and €6000 per week. - help with housework, changing “We do that by providing various admit, older generations may feel tions are vague, and open to inter- Cost IS important, but it should be beds, and house maintenance - as services, such as a 24-hour emer- alienated from traditional commu- pretation, which doesn’t really help considered that if acute care is well as estate management services gency maintenance, taking away the nities that bear no resemblance to matters. The INHO is working to help required, the person is probably bet- to provide security and upkeep of hassle of such problems. Looking those they lived in, in years gone implement those standards. ter off in a nursing home, because public areas. after refuse collection, gardening, by. Perhaps the main attraction in more appropriate care is available. “The concept of the retirement vil- security, and so on, is all looked reality is that of regaining that DJ: There seems to be a lack of We are a wealthy economy. If we lage is very much to give people time after.” sense of community rarely on offer defined guidelines for private nursing can’t look after our old people, we to do things that they otherwise Burrows is quick to acknowledge outside of such developments in home care currently. What can be should ask ourselves some serious would not have the time to do in that traditional Irish values have 21st Century Ireland. ■ done to resolve this? questions. ■

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IT Initiative increases IT is for everyone As the use of the internet, email and mobile communica- access for older users tions continues to be an essential fact-of-life for most people, many older people may feel somewhat left out of The Access, Skills and Content Initiative is an innovative scheme set up in 2006. Its the so-called ‘information revolution’. main aim is to help voluntary organisations, community groups and service providers reach out to so-called 'late adopters' of information technology. 'Late adopters' have hose who have retired will been identified primarily as older people and people living with disabilities. probably not come into con- T tact with computers in a work environment, and have probably not had the same exposure to technology in either a professional or home environment. “This is the last generation that has not had the opportunity to work with new technology in work or school,” says Anne Nevill of Age Action. Team work: Student Maire O’Kelly and her tutor Age Action runs a popular IT edu- Allen Smith, both from Rathmines, making real progress as part of the Getting Started computer cation course, targeted solely at older training programme run by Age Action. people who want to upgrade their skills to include using computers and the internet. “The courses are designed to over- come the fear that older people might feel in relation to computers,” says Anne. “Training is given in small peer groups, with no more than three or four people per trainer. “A person who completes the pro- eInclusion Minister Tom Kitt at Age Action Ireland, with Get started students Rosemary Parr, Cabra, and Allan Gardner, Phibsborough. gramme will be able to use a comput- eing part of a global network the information society is vital,’ he says. beneficial impact on what people are er independently, for basic things Ken Dixon, Vincent Savage and Katie McGing of users, many people take The project started with €1.5m in doing, whether that is in education, at like sending and receiving and email, receiving their Getting Started certificates from the internet and its advan- funds, with the main aim of assisting work, or just coping with the chal- and using the internet. They will also the then Lord Mayor of Dublin, Councillor B Vincent Jackson, last June. tages for granted. However, for projects that have a focus on digital lenges and demands of everyday life.’ have a good understanding of how a groups such as older people, the content and promoting skills. This Such organisations that were computer works.” internet can remain out of reach. year’s funding will double that helped in 2006 include the 1428 The world of information technol- have completed various classes so far, This may be for various reasons, amount to around €3m. Active Retirement Club, which ogy is not one that has an upper age in Dublin, Galway and Monaghan. including cost, and even fear of what ‘There are a number of aspects to received funds to teach basic internet limit. The programme will be introduced internet technology involves. addressing the problem of the digital and email skills. The South Tipperary “Many people want to be included, nationwide from 2008. ‘We need to take the fear away,’ divide, and it is not just about getting Older Peoples Network was funded to and don’t want to be left out. They “People can contact Age Action says Minister of State at the Depart- access to technology,’ says the Minis- create training programmes to pro- may fear that IT could be intimidat- directly, or they can go to their local ment of the Taoiseach, and Minister ter. ‘It is more important for people to mote everyday practical uses of ing, and also you have to learn spe- library to be included on the list for the Information Society, Tom Kitt have fundamental skills to use tech- information technology. The Out- cific skills for the use of the computer there. Various forms of training are T.D. With the main aim of bridging nologies wherever they are and the house Community Resource Centre in that you don’t have in other areas – on offer, from a couple of hours of the digital divide to incorporate all benefits of using technology can be Dublin is using its grant to run com- for example, using a mouse, select- basic IT training, to schemes like Age sectors of Irish society, Minister Kitt seen in circumstances where it makes puting and internet workshops for its ing text, and so on. But these are all Action’s, with six weeks of intensive is eager to encourage local groups to a difference to them and their lives. members who are over the age of 50. skills that can be acquired.” training in IT specifically designed take advantage of the scheme. Properly and imaginatively used, The Age Action courses have proved for older people. The courses are free ‘Encouraging full participation in new technologies can have a very ■ hugely popular. About 600 people of charge.” ■ THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT 9

A digital guiding hand In the past, the only way to have a telephone in the home was to contact Telecom Éireann to request both a line and the apparatus necessary to begin to make and receive calls.

oday, the communications clear and concise guides, aimed at technology that may be a barrier to revolution means that the older people and those living with some older people. SMS-to-speech Tphone in the corner is being disabilities, outlining services and converts text messages into speech, displaced rapidly by the meteoric rise products that can help people get the so that they can be listened to, in of the mobile phone, and the various most from their phonecalls and case a user cannot see the phone different functions that can now be internet. Subjects covered include screen clearly. Another service is provided over a line – broadband VoIP, switching telephone providers, free directory enquiry calls to certain internet, video calls, (the now tradi- preventing cold calls, and internet providers if a user cannot use the tional) fax, amongst others. connections. paper version of the phone book. Deciding on a communications ‘These consumer guides were cre- Telephones can be adapted to suit provider, and selecting service tariffs ated in cooperation with the National varying needs. Large keys with may be a headache for people at the Disability Authority,’ says Kerry increase-size numbers are important best of times. For someone who is O’Hare of ComReg. ‘Designed to for those with impaired vision or embarking on such a decision for introduce the basics of phones and problems pressing smaller buttons. perhaps the first time, however, mak- broadband, they offer clear informa- Flashing lights on phones can be difference. Popular internet services friends who live abroad - and can ing that decision can be a daunting tion about what is out there, as well vital for those who have impaired such as voice-over IP (making present huge savings on bills, too. prospect. as explanations of terminology and hearing and may not be able to hear phonecalls using the internet con- Knowing that these services exist, With this in mind, ComReg, the contact details.’ a ringtone clearly. Knowing how to nection) and instant messaging can and are easy to use, can open up a Commission for Communications The guide highlights essential activate the vibration function on a mean a great deal to a person who whole new world of communication. Regulation, has published a series of services that overcome aspects of mobile phone can also make a huge wants to stay in touch with family or ■

online dating groups, many older people also require versions of such Silver Surfers services for their own needs. “There are many over-55’s using our The internet no longer holds to become both technically proficient service,” says Tony Blin Stoyle of inter- and confident to exploit all the bene- national matchmaking website Par- the air of mystery that it once fits that the internet has to offer. ship.ie. “This group is becoming much did ten years ago, when its In the UK, the organisers of the more active on the internet, using it for main adherents were those annual Silver Surfers' Day seek to all sorts of things, even finding a long- highlight benefits that information term relationship. Older people are who accessed via work or technology training can bring to more likely to be divorced or widowed, universities. older people. After all, the informa- so it is a valuable service for people tion revolution was meant to speed don’t want to go clubbing or go to the aving developed into a pow- up the process of communication pub to try to find somebody.” erful tool for everyone, and to enable closer connections to savings that can be achieved by queuing at the post office, council The democratisation of electronic Hrather than the select few, other people, regardless of their using online services. An interesting building or bank to do exactly the information means that the internet today’s older generation is perhaps physical distance - surely older peo- point raised by the Silver Surfers' same task, often in the cold weather. is very much open to anyone who the one remaining group that reached ple are one of the main social groups Day group is that, whilst their chil- Another advantage is that of being wishes to partake.For those who adulthood without having at least who should stand to gain the most dren and grandchildren may be pay- able to meet people to build stronger know how to get online, there is a some previous contact with comput- from such services? ing a bill, applying for road tax, or relationships. Whilst all the talk in whole new world waiting to be dis- ers. However, that does not preclude Another, practical, reason to pro- checking a bank balance all online, the media may be of younger people covered – what do you have to lose? older people from acquiring the skills mote use of the internet is the cost many older people will be at the using sites such as Facebook or ■

Why should you choose Home Care Clinic?

Home Care Clinic Ltd. is a company Why are we different? Services we offer: established by a team of experienced We believe we have created • Home care home carers working with elderly and and implemented an • Home help We care! disabled people for years. We are focu- ultimate company for • Convalescent care sing on supporting people at home, delivering social care • Personal assistance giving them an opportunity to inde- services. We have brought • Family support service pendent life in their homes instead of together medical and non nursing homes or hospitals. Our medical services - we Medical Clinic: clients receive a proper level of support deliberately called ourselves GP doctors, Paediatrician, ENT specialist, and care in the place that they feel safe, a Clinic because we provide Dentist, blood tests, vaccinations, ECG and ultrasound scans. secure and comfortable. a professional medical treatment complimented We provide 24 hour care 7 days a week delivering To book an appointment by home care services. Every Home Help/Care Services. Phone (01)8500617 or 0872277946 client, especially in an If you are a private client you can choose any number of hours you 353a North Circular Road emergency situation can call one of our nurses or doctors without wish. You can book 7 hours per week in the morning time or 24/7 Phibsborough, Dublin 7 having to wait for hours for a public health representative. Waiting care, 365 days a year in your own home. You can claim tax relief on www.homecareclinic.com in such a situation is unacceptable! payments to Home Care Clinic of up to 50000 per annum. 10 THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT Not hard of hearing

One of the most noticeable effects of getting older is the impact it has on the senses. Sight and hearing are the two senses that are probably most at risk of deterioration, with little that can be done to reverse the process.

oss of hearing is an almost pitched ring tones to schoolchildren use digital technology now, as inevitable fact of the aging on the basis that adults cannot hear opposed to an analogue device in the L process. The actual medical them! past. Indeed, for an analogue hear- term to describe the condition is “Most people only realise that they ing aid to attempt to perform to the presbycusis, and initial symptoms have started to lose their hearing same standard as a digital device, can include general difficulty in when about 35-40 per cent [of it] has it would have to be carried around in hearing, problems focusing on a con- gone,” says Neil Morrison, of hearing a suitcase! As technology has devel- versation when there is background aid provider Acoustic Technologies oped, so it has had an impact on noise, or even tinnitus - ringing in Ltd. “That is when it starts to effect hearing aids. What was our best the ears. everyday life – people can stop going hearing aid four years ago now Presbycusis is caused by either out, and start to withdraw from life.” wouldn’t even be our worst aid loss or damage to the minute hair A hearing aid is the most practical today,” says Morrison. “Modern Loss of hearing is an almost inevitable fact of the aging process. cells in the inner ear that help to way of helping a person who is expe- hearing aids all have noise reduction process sound waves. Whilst a major riencing such problems. However, and feedback cancellation – so they have become much better,” says advice is as pertinent as ever. cause of such damage is down to even though the modern concept of won’t whistle.” Morrison. “For the same cost up until When working near loud noise, aging, other causes can include the hearing aid has been available in In terms of the cost of acquiring recently, the standard of hearing aid ear protection, such as noise can- accumulated damage from loud various forms for over hundred years hearing aids, there is assistance that is available now has increased celling headphones, should always noise and genetics, amongst other (most widely-known is the ‘speaking available. Irish taxpayers can avail dramatically.” be worn. Regular cleaning to reduce causes. tube’), the device does not provide a of up to half of the cost of a hearing Of course, the old maxim that pre- build-up of earwax should also be Regardless of the negative effects person with hearing; that is to say, its aid on application to the Department vention is better than cure also part of the personal hygiene process. of presbycusis, everyone experiences name describes exactly what it does of Social and Family Affairs. applies to our hearing. Ever since the If you suspect that your hearing degradation of hearing after the age – it is an aid to hearing, but one that One interesting aspect of the cost introduction of the personal cassette has changed, it is always wise to visit of around 18 years, however imper- can mean the difference between a of hearing aids is that prices have player, playing music at high vol- a GP to investigate further - accept- ceptible that reduction may be. continued standard of living and of generally neither increased nor umes through headphones has been ing the possible problem and taking Indeed, mobile phone ring tone com- one of withdrawal and resignation. decreased in recent years. discouraged by health organisations. steps to deal with it will always be panies have sought to capitalise on “Today’s hearing aids benefit from “Although costs have stayed the With the massive popularity of MP3 more beneficial than ignoring it. this phenomenon by selling high- better sound reproduction. Most aids same, the quality of hearing aids players amongst all age groups, this ■

I hear with something that you can’t see….

Siemens Hearing Instruments – Contact us for a free demonstration…

What really matters to hearing aid wearers is the most natural, personal, and comfortable listening experience possible. To arrange a demonstration with your local Hearing Aid Audiologist please call Acoustic Technologies Ltd – Dublin, Irish distributor of Siemens Hearing Instruments.

PO Box 10005, E-mail: [email protected] Acoustic Technologies Ltd Kilbarrack, Dublin 5 Freefone Number 1800 301 335 THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT 11 A vision of age Dry Mouth ost people probably do not tions, anything from anti-cholesterol An inevitable aspect of aging is the physical effect of the process on our bodies. give a second thought to treatments to anti-depressants,” says Whilst it cannot be denied that many of those effects can be at the very least frustrat- Mthe process of saliva pro- Coughlan. duction. A fluid that is produced in “Primarily, people suffer from dry ing, such changes can also be disabling. The eyes are one area in particular where the mouth, it has many purposes: to mouth in the mornings, although it changes are obviously very apparent, and can have a profound effect on lifestyle and help break down enzymes in food so can be an problem at any time during it can be digested; to protect teeth the day. People with dry mouth are independence. from acids; to be a natural antibac- prone to mouth ulcers, chapped lips terial agent to help protect against and gum disease. Saliva is a natural Presmyopia fifties. Indeed, only around two per people of African descent have a oral complaints. antibacterial substance that usually Presmyopia, or loss of flexibility in cent of people do not require some higher risk of developing the condi- A common problem, but not one helps to prevent such problems.” the eye’s lens, is the most common kind of ocular assistance – for the tion. An eye disease that damages that is given a great deal of promi- Although dry mouth cannot be effect of aging on the eyes. Whilst most part, reading glasses. the optic nerve - the part of the eye nence, is that of dry mouth. Caused cured, there are products on the mar- the term sounds very serious (myopia that transfers signals from the eyes to when saliva production is reduced – ket that can help sufferers to cope is the formal term for short-sighted- Macular Degeneration the brain - people with the condition for any number of reasons – dry with its effects. ness), it is actually used to describe “Macular degeneration, commonly usually find that their peripheral mouth is an irritating problem that “Dry mouth can really affect a suf- the almost inevitable degradation of known as age-related macular vision is the first sign that something can actually lead to other com- ferer’s quality of life.For example, eyesight that starts to happen when a degeneration is a progressive condi- is wrong. plaints. people with dry mouth cannot use person is in his or her forties or tion that cannot be reversed, but There is no definitive cure for “The sensation of having a dry ordinary toothpaste. Such products there are some treatments that can glaucoma, but there are treatments mouth is not particularly pleasant,” contain drying agents, which exacer- slow down its progress,” says Peter available to manage it, ranging from says Micheál Coughlan of Offaly- bate the problem. Anti-dry mouth Coleman, of the Association of eye drops to surgery. based company Europharma. “It products do not contain such agents, Optometrists Ireland. [normal saliva production] is some- so can be of great help.” “In many cases, when an optometrist Cataracts thing that we all take for granted – People who experience dry mouth suspects that there is a problem, he or “Cataracts are very much an age- once that has stopped, it can actually should consult their GP for advice. A she will refer the client to his or her GP, related deteriorative condition,” con- be a big thing to deal with.” problem that could be ignored, dry or to an ophthalmologist, who will be tinues Peter Coleman. The lens of the A problem for many older people, mouth may also be an indicator of better placed to deal with such issues.” eye that controls focus can become especially women (the aging process more serious conditions, such as dia- cloudy, and can make vision appear is one possible cause of dry mouth), betes. Even though there is not a Glaucoma hazy. “The remedy for cataracts is a there is no definitive cure for inhibit- cure available yet, people living with Another age-related issue is glauco- simple operative procedure – a well- ed saliva production. dry mouth do not have to live with ma. Although it can affect people at established operation that is carried “Dry mouth is a side-effect of over the burden of its effects. any age, older people, genetics and out daily on patients. ■ 400 commonly-prescribed medica- ■ Phones & Broadband a guide for people with disabilities and older people

Do you need to bring water to bed at night? Dry mouth really affects your quality of life & can lead to gum disease, bad breath & tooth decay. For Dry Mouth protection and relief, you need…

Ask your Pharmacist about oral care products

Biotène oral care products contain natural antibacterial enzymes that provide protection & relief against Dry Mouth. Biotène products are Alcohol & Sodium Lauryl Sulphate FREE! Biotène products: Toothpaste (Original, Gel & Sensitive), Mouthwash, Oral Balance Gel, Chewing Gum, Oral Balance Moisturising The guide is available in Large Print, Easy-to-Read, Braille and Audio from the Liquid, Denture Grip & Supersoft Toothbrush Commission for Communications Regulation on (LoCall) 1890 229 668 and For further information and FREE SAMPLES contact: the National Disability Authority on 01 608 0400. Accessible electronic Europharma Concepts Ltd., Clara, Co. Offaly versions are also available on: E: [email protected] • T: 057 936 4950 • W: www.epc.ie www.askcomreg.ie and www.nda.ie 12 THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT It’s a process to plan a funeral The process of planning a find out why a person has died – grave can be anywhere between this is standard procedure. 250-€1000, depending on when funeral can appear to be a the work is done, and if any over- difficult task, made all the • The funeral director will guide the time work (mainly over the week- more daunting by the fact family as much as possible to end) is involved. decide on important matters such that in most cases, the per- as the preferred church, trans- • Extra costs can involve the provi- son organising the proceed- portation arrangements, and flow- sion of funeral singers, organists, ings is often grieving just as ers. The director will also liaise and other services not usually pro- with the priest to arrange a date vided as standard. much as other family mem- and time for the service. bers and loved ones. In such • The funeral director will not let the • ‘One-movement’ funerals are family be overwhelmed by the times, the funeral director becoming more popular. Such amount of detail involved in plan- becomes a trusted contact, services do not involve the tradi- ning a funeral. With many deci- there to provide help and tional removal of the body the sions to be made, the director will night before, but rather the body is present all information clearly and support. brought directly to the church for concisely. An accurate estimate of the funeral mass. Such funerals the cost of the service should also uneral arranging does not may be used if the deceased has be provided, removing the worry have to be an onerous task, as little family left, for example. of how much the bill will be. ■ F long as the person charged with dealing with the details is given • Another tradition on the wane is the right guidance from both the pro- that of removing the deceased to fessional, and the family. be waked at home. Still practised Information The Irish Association of Funeral in some families, many people For more information on how to Directors (IAFD) can provide compre- son for the IAFD described recent • Once a person has died, the funeral now choose not to bring the body deal with the practical demands of hensive advice to both the bereaved trends in funeral planning, highlight- director should be called straight back to the home. death, and planning a funeral, visit and to the professionals who deal ing some distinct breaks from tradi- away. If a death has occurred sud- www.rip.ie for an excellent guide with them. IAFD members can make tional practises, along with the con- denly, or without warning, such • An important cost is that of open- to procedures, as well as a com- getting through the initial period of tinued adherence to other parts of cases have to be reported to the ing the grave, which can only be prehensive range of service provider death and the funeral as easy as pos- process of dealing with those who local coroner. The coroner will done by authorised cemetery per- details and contact information. sible. Speaking recently, a spokesper- have recently passed on. verify the details of the death, to sonnel. The cost of opening the THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT 13 Finally have the time to travel

One of the benefits of being retired is finally having the time to do all the things you said you were going to do, but never had the time. Well, it does not always work out like that, but for those who wanted to travel, being older brings distinct advantages.

n the island of Ireland, like it, takes the train from Connolly real cost savings. Such deals usually everyone over the age of 66 Station to Belfast, enjoys a lunch and involve a two-night stay with at least Ois entitled to a free public a spot of shopping in the city, then one evening meal included. Look out transport pass. The pass is valid on returns to Dublin, having enjoyed a for last-minute bargains in newspa- times and routes can be chosen to less amounts of Irish people snapping the vast majority of buses, trains, lovely day out for no cost! pers such as the Irish Independent’s suit both your interest and your up bargains in the top stores there. trams and ferries in both the Repub- listing service. desire to take it rather more easy. Winter sun is another cost-effec- lic and the North. Also included in For overnight stays, most of Ireland’s Travelling further afield is a great A more relaxing alternative is a tive option. Forgoing the depress- the scheme is travel to all of Ireland’s hotels and guesthouses operate option. Recent travel surveys sug- cruise. From a short trip around the ingly damp climate of an Irish win- offshore islands. reduced tariffs for people over the gest that the ‘gap year’ enjoyed by so Mediterranean, to a once-in-a-life- ter, many people head for the Having opened up the country to age of 55. Usually applicable in off- many post-Leaving Certificate stu- time grand journey on a liner like the Mediterranean, or further afield to its older citizens, the free travel pass peak periods, such rates can offer dents has now taken off in a big way QE2, there are many different the Canaries, Azores, Madeira, or has meant that, for many, destina- with recent retirees. The concept of options to suit all tastes and pockets. new destination of Cape Verde. Con- tions once considered to remote are travelling the world for exploration No longer the staid affair that they sidered off-peak times, the weather, now easily accessible. One Dublin and enjoyment was not one that was might have been before, cruises like whilst not swelteringly hot, is calm free travel pass owner described generally accepted in the past, but those in European or Caribbean and temperate, with a vastly reduced recently how, when she feels there is absolutely no reason why waters offer ample opportunity to threat of rain than back here at people cannot enjoy their own gap- explore cities and ports wherever the home. ■ year-style adventure. ship has stopped. A plethora of Destinations like Latin America or activities means that a trip can be as South-East Asia need not be ‘out-of- hectic or as relaxing as desired. The following sources can provide bounds’. Careful research, and per- more information about the sugges- haps travelling with an organised A favoured destination for Irish peo- tions featured in this article. tour group, means that the wonders ple has always been North America. of Machu Picchu or the beauty of Inextricable links with both the Unit- Free travel pass – www.welfare.ie Koh Samui can be enjoyed just as ed States and Canada mean that, for Train travel – www.irishrail.ie much as younger travellers almost many, trips to America can be times Bus travel – www.buseireann.ie take such destinations for granted. for family reunion, as well as for a Gap year – www.gapyear.com holiday. One major advantage of Travel advice – www.lonelyplanet.com, InterRail is a fantastic way to experi- going to the US this year is the fall of www.saga.co.uk ence Europe’s greatest cities. This the dollar and the rise of the euro. InterRail – www.interrailnet.com does not mean the traveller has to get With the euro stretching further than New York shopping – lumbered with a backpack, however. ever before, shopping in New York is a www.ny.com/shopping Different passes and tariffs mean that real possibility, with seemingly end- 14 THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT

Cyprus: the sunny winter wonderland!

t seems the winter season has just 18 degrees in Cyprus. In January and is a perfect time to explore walking trails kicked off in Ireland and already February, the coldest months, tem- around the villages and Akamas Peninsu- Ithe winter blues are starting to peratures range between 16 – 19 la. There are many walking trails of vari- take its toll on many of us. The day- degrees at the coastal resorts. It is ous grades and there is something for light hours are growing increasingly much colder up in the Troodos Moun- everyone, whether it’s an easy flat walk or shorter, average temperatures are tains, where the highest mountain, at a steep climb. Sporting events throughout dropping and the wind and rain nearly 2,000 meters, gets snow. It is early 2008 and up to May include Inter- combination slapping you in the face quite possible to go skiing the one national Marathons, Triathlons and on the way to the supermarket makes day and sit basking in the sun the Cycling competitions. Other regional you wonder if you are being pun- next. Late and Early summer, i.e. May sporting events include golf, volleyball, ished for something. and October, are also good times to and motor rallying, whilst scuba diving, If this sounds like you, it might be visit. It is pleasantly hot and ideal sailing and of course sunbathing can be time to treat yourself to a winter swimming weather during this time. enjoyed year round as well. break! And there is no better place for cold, restless Islanders to go than Mediterranean cuisine Festivals to another, much warmer island Tavernas, restaurants and hotels The New Year brings with it the Carni- located in the heart of the Mediter- abound in Cyprus all offer up French, val season. Cypriots are zealous when it ranean. Cyprus, with its sunny win- Italian and "international" menus, but comes to festivals and it all starts on ter days, geographic wonders, year the real delights are to be found in sam- Epiphany Day in early January, one of round cultural festivals and ancient pling the local cuisine. Meze (or the most important religious celebra- sites, is top of the list for Island get- mezedes or mezedakia) for example, tions of the year. Following a Mass in aways. In January 2008, Cyprus offi- are a rich selection of appetizers and the Cathedral of each town, is a proces- cially adopts the euro securing itself savories and are typically served in up sion to throw a wooden cross into the as one of the most sought after loca- to 20 saucer like dishes. When ordered, sea in a ceremonial baptism. Once this tions in the years to come. Here are a a variety of cheeses like halloumi, made from minced lamb or beef and lent lives of some of the Roman is done, young men dive into the waters few more reasons Cyprus is the per- kaskavalli or feta are bound to arrive herbs covered with layers of sliced Paphiots. Further excavation have to retrieve the cross and return it to the fect cure for the winter blues. alongside fresh tomatoes, olives, celery, potatoes, eggplant and zucchini. revealed a number of Roman houses priest. Community celebrations follow. Climate sliced artichokes or smoked ham. Hou- all with spectacular mosaics, depict- A month later, there is a ten-day carni- One of the benefits of being a mous a savory dip made from ground Cultural sites ing scenes from ancient mythology val to mark the fifty days before Easter. Mediterranean island is plentiful sun- chick peas, olive oil and garlic will be One of the island’s “must sees” are the In this ten-day frenzy a diet of copious shine year round and Cyprus is no likely on the menu as well. Fresh fish colorful and intricate Roman mosaics Outdoor activities amounts of meat and cheese is preva- exception. Temperatures during the and sea food such as octopus, squid and to be found in Paphos. Discovered by This is an attractive time of year for peo- lent, and many parades and fancy months of November/December and shrimps also abound., succulent And accident in the 1960's, the mosaics ple who love physical activity and for dress balls take place each day. ■ March/April are approximately 25 – don’t forget to sample the Moussaka, give a clue to the wealthy and opu- those who love to travel around on foot. It THIS IS AN INDEPENDENT PULL OUT SUPPLEMENT FROM MEDIAPLANET DISTRIBUTED WITH THE IRISH INDEPENDENT 15 Naturally Nordic Whilst many holidays for older people concentrate firmly on chasing that ever-elusive winter sun, a growing interest in expanding one's horizons means that alternative destinations - not necessarily those with the best climate, either - are now becoming increasingly popular.

ne such destination is Nor- longest and deepest fjord. Recreat- country’s most spectacular sites are way. Actually closer than ing the Viking spirit (without having well within easy reach. O you would think, Norway is to do your own rowing!), cruises Almost all Norwegians can speak accessible directly from Dublin Air- dock in picturesque ports such as English, so there will never be any port, and is a year-round destination Bergen, Trondheim and Kirkenes. language barriers. Whilst it is true for those who want a truly Nordic One sight that nobody wants to miss that prices are high compared to experience. is the Aurora Borealis - the Northern other European countries, Norway Although Norway’s population of Lights. This spectacular natural light still compares with Ireland in terms just over 4.6 million people compares show is a highlight of any trip to of the cost of many items, especially to that of Ireland, its vast expanse, Norway, and should definitely be food. stretching from the town of Kris- experienced at least once in your tiansand in the south, up through the lifetime. Whether you are in search of the Mid- breath-taking fjords, right up to Oslo, Norway's capital, represents night Sun, looking for a Nordic Tromsø in the far north near the Arc- the very best urban spaces that sit adventure, or just want to visit some- tic Circle, and beyond to the tradi- comfortably with the surround natu- where different – Norway is a coun- tional home of the Sámi people. ral beauty. Often referred to as 'the try just waiting to be explored! ■ A fantastic way of discovering the world's biggest village', Oslo is easy unimaginable natural beauty of Nor- to get around: buses, trams, an way is to see it from the comfort of a underground, and ferries are all cruise liner. A typical cruise involves available. For those who prefer their a short flight to Norway, before own two feet, Oslo is a dream city - boarding a liner to see spectacular all the sights are within easy walking scenery, exploring the fjords and distance. mountains for which Norway is For nature lovers, Norway really is renowned – make sure your cruise an essential destination. With a includes Sognefjord, the world’s comprehensive travel network, the Mediaplanet is the leading European publisher in providing high quality and in-depth analysis on topical industry and market issues. We publish supplements with the leading newspapers across Europe and in the U.S.

Our annual production of over 525 papers, in 14 countries, shows that topical special interest supplements are a modern way to reach a well targeted audience.

Mediaplanet opened the Irish office in May 2007 and produces supplements on various topics, distributed with the daily Irish press.

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