Older people have their say on Programme for Government

Today older people have had their say on the draft Programme for Government at a “Preparing for an ageing population” event being held at Stormont. 

Attended by the First Minister and Deputy First Minister, the event was hosted by the All Party Group on Ageing and Older People.  Older people were joined by MLAs to discuss the challenges and opportunities of our ageing population and how to plan for a future where we all age well. 

Age NI highlighted the findings from its Lived Experience survey (2023), where almost 1000 older people took the opportunity to share the key issues have an impact on their day-to-day lives.

Linda Robinson, Chief Executive of Age NI says:

“Our event today represents a major opportunity for older people and elected representatives to have a discussion on key issues such as older workers, health and social care, and pensioner poverty. 

We know our population is ageing faster than the rest of the UK.  We also know that this requires joined up thinking and a co-ordinated response from government to manage the resources available to support our ageing population.

This means radical changes are needed across government departments if we are to respond positively to our ageing population, challenge ageist assumptions and prejudice, and help people stay well for longer. It’s clear from today’s event that older people want to play their part in delivering better outcomes for now and in the future.

Claire Sugden MLA, Chair of the All-Party Group on Ageing and Older People, sponsored the event and added:

“We are an ageing population. One in six people in Northern Ireland are over 65. Our rapidly changing demographic inevitably changes what we need from public services. It is a failure now and for our future not to consider who the people of NI are when designing policy and taking forward tangible actions. 

The NI Executive must include older people in their plans and Programme for Government. For too long, public services have not met health and social care needs, responded to a changing economy, or simply provided quality services, that as citizens, we are entitled to. This is a symptom of failing to follow the data and forward plan. We have an opportunity in this Programme for Government to recognise, value and serve our older people and I would strongly encourage the government to ensure they are included.”

Eddie Lynch, the Commissioner for Older People for Northern Ireland, presented current evidence on the demographic changes and continued:

“The proportion of people aged 65 and over in Northern Ireland is projected to grow over 24% by 2040. This is encouraging news as it shows that we are living longer, healthier lives, however, an ageing population also brings challenges and consequences at all levels.

During my time as Commissioner, I have repeatedly emphasised the need to prepare for this demographic shift, it is essential to ensure our healthcare systems, economy and quality of public services can meet rising demands.  We are already witnessing some issues, but things will get worse without proactive measures.

I am delighted to support the All-Party Group on Ageing, events like this not only provide a platform for cross-sector collaboration but also build momentum for policies and initiatives that will help older generations age with dignity while also building a sustainable future for generations to come.”