In May 2024, Ireland’s Minister of State for Mental Health and Older People, Ms Mary Butler TD officiated the launch of the Kenmare Community Care – Operational Context, Area Profile and Opportunities for Development Report. This report was commissioned by Kenmare Community Care – a voluntary body that delivers services for older people in Kenmare and the surrounding rural communities, in South Kerry. Kenmare Community Care has been providing housing, meals and preventive healthcare services for over fifty years. They work collaboratively with Kerry County Council, the Health Service Executive, Clann Housing Association and local service providers.
Kenmare Community Care has continually sought to innovate and plan for future needs and trends. In 2023, they decided to undertake a study on future population trends – over the next 30 years – in order to anticipate and plan for future needs. The study, which they self-financed and is open source, looked at the current composition of the population and outlined scenarios, in respect of the age composition of the population, in the 2040s and 2050s. The report provides useful signposts in respect of housing, planning, healthcare, well-being and other local services.
Kenmare’s population trajectory is similar to that of many rural communities, particularly those in areas often classified as ‘high amenity’ or ‘scenic’. Yet, many local authorities, communities and service providers struggle to get a handle on population projections at local level, particularly as they strive to engage with and provide services to ageing populations. Therefore, this paper should be of interest to those who serve varied geographies and those who work with older people, especially in rural areas.
The report advocates the following:
- strategic planning to address the challenges and opportunities associated with this demographic shift.
- increasing the supply of bespoke community-based housing for older people and making it easier for people to live independently for as long as possible.
- policies focusing on age-friendly environments, healthcare, and social inclusion – contributing to resilient communities.
- expanding healthcare and social services, including in-home care, frontline/primary medical facilities, and recreational activities tailored to older people.
- investment in age-friendly infrastructure – including accessible transportation, safer pedestrian pathways, and community centres that cater to the social and physical needs of older residents.
- enabling active participation of older people in community activities and decision-making processes.
- further promoting social inclusion and mental well-being.
In its conclusion, the report refers to the merits of ongoing research and data collection to monitor demographic changes and assess the effectiveness of implemented strategies. It calls for a collaborative approach involving local government, community organisations, and residents to ensure that the needs of the ageing population are met effectively.
To read the full article visit the LGIU website Here
