ALONE’s ECC data for 2024 shows increasing level of need among older people whose voice is less heard
The report provides details on supporting over 43,000 individuals through its services last year as part of the Enhanced Community Care programme
Dublin, 21st March 2025 ALONE, the organisation that enables people to age at home, today launched its latest report on working within HSE’s Enhanced Community Care (ECC) programme. The organisation noted a rise in the nutritional needs and physical health challenges faced by older people, as well as 1 in 4 reporting Mental Health needs and 1 in 3 having financial concerns.
The numbers of older people reporting nutrition-related issues saw a significant increase, rising 35% year on year in 2024. Of those reporting nutrition-related concerns, the most common needs were for alternative food options and Meals-on-Wheels services.
Sean Moynihan, ALONE, CEO commented, “Growing old is not the same experience for everyone and, often, the people that come to us for support are the people you hear about less. We are proud to have provided support to over 43,000 older people across all our services in 2024. But we must note the issues that they are facing like increased physical health and mobility needs, an increase in need for nutritional supports, and a rise in some mental health issues like anxiety and addiction.”
“Demand for our services has grown each year, with more older people requiring ongoing support, assessments, and interventions. Another notable fact is that we are supporting more people aged 86-90 years old showing that we are living longer but still need support to age at home.”
Over half of the organisation’s support was delivered in collaboration with its diverse network of partners across Government and State agencies, national advocacy organisations, and community-based service-providers, ensuring tailored support for older people.
Moynihan continued, “We believe the ECC programme provides a once in a lifetime opportunity to change how we support and care for older people in the community. ALONE services have played a vital role in this, by bridging the gap between community and acute services and ensuring that no older person is left without the help they require. Of the support we provided in 2024, 86% was delivered successfully. We welcome the Programme for Government committing to the expansion of the ECC programme, as it will enable us to campaign for equity of access for all to age at home on their own terms “.
Anyone in need of our support or who knows someone that might is asked to contact us on 0818 222 024 or ALONE.ie. ENDS
The full report is available here – https://alone.ie/library/alone-ecc-report-2024/