Advice for a family dilemma

Sage, as an advocacy service for vulnerable adults and older people, welcomes the coverage in the

Irish Independent of the various legal and emotional issues which can, unfortunately, arise for many families when an older person who has previously led an independent life requires support and care.

Noticeably absent however in the article which appeared in the Farm Ireland section (‘I don’t want to put my mother in a nursing home’, April 25) was any mention of the mother’s entitlement to have a say in her own affairs.

She should be placed at the centre of any decision-making process concerning her future life.

Thankfully, the Assisted Decision-Making Act 2015, working through the Decision Support Service (which is in the process of being established) will legislatively remedy this.

It will also provide a range of decision support arrangements (in addition to an enduring power of attorney) which any adult will be able to avail of at a time in their lives when they might find themselves vulnerable.

As a mediator as well as a solicitor, may I suggest family circumstances such as this require hard family conversations to be had where the vulnerable adult is supported by an independent third party, such as an advocate, to voice their own wishes, preferences and fears about their future life.

Sage’s motto says it all: “Nothing about you without you.”

If any person needs the support of Sage to ensure their voice is heard, they should call 1850 719400. Mary Condell Sage Support & Advocacy service, 24-26 Ormond Quay, Dublin