Meeting the challenge of caring for an ageing population in Ireland

As the number of people growing old with learning disabilities rises the need for a dedicated clinical nurse specialist role is becoming imperative, argue Maria Caples and colleagues

The age profile of Irish people with a learning disability has changed significantly prompting a call for the development of the role of the gerontological clinical nurse specialist. The authors argue the role would bring much-needed expertise to support families and carers and to advocate for individuals accessing healthcare services.