797. Deputy Albert Dolan asked the Minister for Health the actions her Department is taking, in conjunction with other Departments and agencies, to address loneliness and social isolation among older people; and if she will make a statement on the matter. [51291/26]

The issue of loneliness is recognised by Government as a public health concern with clear links to poorer mental health outcomes, reduced wellbeing and increased risk of social isolation, particularly among older people. Government is committed to supporting older people to continue to live in their own homes for as long as possible and to increasing the level of support available in our communities for Older People. This is a key priority for Government.

The Government is taking a broad, whole-of-government approach to addressing loneliness and social isolation in recognition of the importance of social connection, community participation and mental wellbeing across the life course.

Sharing the Vision – A Mental Health Policy for Everyone 2020–2030, recommends; improving links between primary care and specialist mental health services, consultation-liaison psychiatry, shared care models, efforts to better address the physical health needs of people accessing specialist mental health services within the primary care context, supports for positive aging and the development of a dedicated mental health promotion plan.

In December 2024, the Department of Health published Pathways to Wellbeing – Ireland’s National Mental Health Promotion Plan, which sets out a comprehensive framework for mental health promotion. A core priority of the Plan is strengthening community belonging and connectedness, addressing loneliness and isolation as key determinants of mental health, including among older people.

In parallel, work is underway on the development of a new Healthy Ireland Framework (2026–2040), which will continue to address the social determinants of health, including loneliness and social isolation, at a population level through coordinated cross-government action.

The Commission on Care for Older People, established in Ireland in March 2024, is tasked with examining and improving health and social care services, promoting independent living, and advising on future care models.

Loneliness is an issue that intersects across a number of Government Departments with actions being taken by a number of Departments and agencies. The Department of Health plays a key role in relation to health and wellbeing concerns related to this matter.

A wide range of targeted initiatives are being delivered to address loneliness and social isolation, including Men’s Sheds/Sheds for Life, Social prescribing, Meals on Wheels and Day Care Services, and Home Support Services.

Older People in our community can avail of a number of community-based supports such as Home Support services, Day Care Services and Meals on Wheels services. These services provide valuable health support to their clients and also offer a social outlet which can be particularly beneficial to those living in rural communities.

Overall, the Government’s approach is to embed action on loneliness within broader health, wellbeing and social policy and older persons frameworks, ensuring sustained, cross sectoral impact.