Exploring the role of Community Connectors and and care transitions of older people in the community

As an aging population with a healthcare system that is now under pressure, there is an increasing need to consider alternative methods of care when addressing the needs of older people. The preliminary evidence on Community Connectors suggests that it may be useful for addressing social determinants of health for older people by bridging the gaps that medical services alone cannot fill. Current literature acknowledges that older people are now living longer and are more likely to be facing challenges such as poverty, isolation, loneliness, and poor housing, all of which have been found to impact their overall wellbeing. Developed on the principles of Social Prescribing, the role of the Community Connector is to support individuals to access services by providing personalised care that promotes independence and enhances quality of life. Despite the increasing recognition of the role, there is limited research on the long-term impact and effectiveness and as a consequence evaluations of community connectors in Ireland remain sparse. The Development of a standardised framework is essential for measuring outcomes, gathering qualitative and quantitative and sharing best practices to ensure that this initiative is both effective and sustainable. By doing so, Ireland can build a more inclusive and friendly society that meets the growing needs of Ireland’s aging population.