46 Simon Communities of Ireland The implementation of these recommendations would meet some of the national policy objectives identified in the: • National Drugs Strategy 2009-2016 -in relation to meeting the particular health needs of people who present with dual diagnosis (i.e. mental health and problematic drug and /or alcohol use). • “Vision for Change” National Mental Health Strategy – which proposes the establishment of two multidisciplinary, community-based mental health teams for the Dublin area. • The National Health Strategy – which identifies a number of initiatives to improve the health of people who are homeless. • The Way Home: The National Homeless Strategy 2008-2013 Strategic Aim 5 – ensure effective services for people who are homeless identified health services as a vital component of services for people who are homeless. 4.3 Services which contribute to good health and well-being The research found that many interviewees had lived outside of Ireland and had moved around quite a bit, which meant that they had often lost contact with other family and with friends from their younger days. Only a third of the interviewees had contact with their immediate families with many interviewees (including those living in communal accommodation and particularly those living in rural areas) feeling isolated. Some interviewees availed of activities organised where/close to where they lived but this was more difficult for interviewees with mobility issues, for those that did not/or were not currently in a position to read. Access to transport was an issue for interviewees living in rural areas and/or with mobility issues who wanted to get involved in activities. Boredom was an issue for many interviewees and was a particular issue for interviewees living in hostel type accommodation. Many interviewees noted that because of their health they had limited opportunities for meaningful activities. Interviewees were generally very complementary about the staff and volunteers who they had contact with but regretted there was little time for general conversation because staff and volunteers were busy. Religious belief/belief in the existence of a higher power were a source of comfort for many interviewees. The spiritual and religious needs of interviewees were addressed by staff in a small number of locations (for example, staff arranged for communion to be provided on an occasional basis in hostels). Recommendations which contribute to good health and well-being 4. Provide access to a range of activities to tackle the issue of boredom Older people who are homeless need to be provided with a range of activities to reduce their boredom levels and promote their general wellbeing, with particular thought to be given to the provision of activities for those whose mobility and/or vision may be impaired and for those who are less well able to read. Examples of the kinds of activities would include reminisces work, music therapy, gardening, etc. Occupational Therapy support can be useful in this context as indeed can the implementation of holistic needs assessment. 5. Expand individuals social networks (using volunteers/former service users) and community mobilisation Some interviewees have benefited from visits from volunteers enlarging their social network. These volunteering initiatives need to be expanded to enable all those who would wish to avail of visits to volunteers to participate in the initiative. Former homeless service users could be particularly targeted to become involved in peer support networks.
Homelessness, Ageing and Dying
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