A new support service, which aims to help older people in north Dublin to remain living independently at home, has been launched.

The ALONE charity has partnered with the HSE to provide this vital service to older people throughout the Dublin north city and county area.

It aims to tackle any issues which are impacting on the ability of older people to live independently in their own homes, whether these are privately owned, privately rented or social housing.

"Repeated studies have demonstrated that ageing at home is the first choice of older people and their families. Our Support Coordination Service addresses issues faced by older people living in their own homes and works with statutory bodies, community organisation and other service providers to ensure that the older people get what they deserve.

"This can include anything from access to clothing allowances to addressing unsafe living environments, coordinating home adaptions or linking older people in with befriending services in their area," explained ALONE chief executive, Sean Moynihan.

According to Mary Walshe, head of social care with the HSE, such services in the community ‘are vitally important to empower and help older people to age well at home'.

"It is important that older people feel supported in receiving the care they need and to live in a place of their own choosing. This new partnership between ALONE and the HSE will enhance the supports and services offered to older people in the community and ensure that all older people in the area have access to these services," she noted.

For more information on ALONE, call (01) 679 1032 or click here