Elderly To Be Consulted In New Nursing Home Rules

The Health Information and Quality Authority has launched new minimum quality standards for nursing homes throughout the country.

All public and private nursing homes will be subject to independent inspections to ensure they are implementing the new rules.

The standards set out minimum requirements for the care and welfare of residents, including mandatory levels of training for staff.

They will also give older people a greater say in decisions about their care, with nursing homes obliged to consult residents and take their opinions on board

Age Action Ireland is welcoming the move and says the standards should help to ensure quality, safe care for older people.

However, it says the Government must also introduce firm regulations to support the new standards and ensure they are implemented.