RURAL isolation, accommodation, transport and a lack of carers are just some of the major issues facing older people in Clare, according to Clare Older People’s Council.

Speaking at their AGM, Clare Older People’s Council PRO Patricia Anne Moore hoped that members of the public would come forward and have their voices heard.

“We’re here today in the hope that having our AGM fully open to the members of the public will encourage people the join us and the needs concerns and voice of the older people in Clare will be heard,” Patricia Anne added.

Patricia Anne confirmed that accommodation for older people is a big issue, particularly in the midst of the housing crisis.

She said transport facilities need to be improved so older people can get to hospital appointments etc., but also just for their general enjoyment.

“There’s been such a lot of emigration particularly from the west of the county and the issue of caring is becoming an acute issue because there aren’t enough young people there to be with older people and caring for older people,” she added.

A new Clare Age Friendly Programme was also launched at the AGM.

The programme covers six themes, including Age Friendly Town, Age Friendly Rural Initiative, Health and Wellness, Age Friendly Business Programme, Age Friendly Annual Exhibition and Age Friendly Airport (Shannon).