Minister announces €3.4bn Budget 2027 investment in older people’s services

Minister of State for Older People Kieran O’Donnell has announced more than €3.4 billion in funding for older people’s services in 2027, including significant investment in home support, residential care and community-based services.

The package includes an additional €123 million for home support, providing 1.8 million extra hours and bringing the annual target to a record 28.5 million hours.

Minister O’Donnell said: “Home support plays a vital role in helping older people to live well at home and easing pressure on families and carers.”

A further €97 million has been allocated to the Fair Deal scheme, supporting nursing homes with rising costs and providing for an additional 500 people to access residential care.

Community services will also benefit from new funding, including €2 million for Meals on Wheels, a €2 million Community Supports Grant Scheme and €627,500 for the Care and Repair Scheme. Additional investment will support Healthy Age Friendly Homes coordinators, dementia services and family carers.

The Budget also provides €1.4 million for community-based dementia services, enabling The Alzheimer Society of Ireland to expand day care, home-based support and specialist advisory services. At least 24% of new home support hours will be allocated to people with dementia in 2027.

Minister O’Donnell said: “Budget 2027 delivers a substantial investment in services for older people, including dementia services.”

A further €28.3 million will support transitional care for older people leaving hospital, alongside investment in day services, adult safeguarding and the Nursing Home Linkage Project.

The Minister said the measures would strengthen community-based care and help older people remain independent, connected and supported in their own homes for as long as possible.