The head of Nursing Homes Ireland is warning of a potential care crisis in Clare without a comprehensive plan for the future.
It comes as new research from the Economic and Social Research Institute has highlighted the need for at least 14,000 new beds by 2040.
The ESRI’s research found that at least an additional 1,000 nursing home beds are needed across the country every year until 2040.
It will require a drastic shift in policy and investment, as just 38 new beds were registered nationwide last year.
There are currently 883 beds in Clare and while a nursing home waiting list isn’t available, home care waiting lists in the county are the longest per head of population in the country, highlighting the demand for care for older people.
Nursing Homes Ireland CEO Tadhg Daly says it’s vital more beds come on stream, but also that they’re located throughout the county.
Calls have also been made for improved working conditions for carers and nursing home staff to guarantee the future provision of care.
Clare’s Age Friendly Ambassador and Stockton’s Wing singer-songwriter Mike Hanrahan says it’s a whole of society issue.
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