Ongoing problems highlight fact we need to do more to support those looking after the elderly

I CARE for my elderly mother, who has dementia. Recently, we both moved into a fold, which is great, especially the ease with which I can wheel her in and out.

Fortunately, my mother can still transfer from her wheelchair into an ordinary taxi. But, where possible, I like to use transport with a lift, so my mother can stay in the wheelchair.

Very simple, you would think. “Just use a wheelchair taxi. I’ve seen those.” It is not that simple. Public hire taxis are great, if you happen to be in the city centre, as they are all wheelchair-accessible, but you can’t ring them up.

There are very few wheelchair taxis left with Fonacab or Value Cabs. It was made illegal to discriminate against the disabled, by charging more for a wheelchair taxi, and so, to own one no longer pays, as it costs more money to insure.

Then the other transport provider, Disability Action, told us that you are best to try a week in advance as soon as the phone lines open at 9am (and you aren’t always successful). Their funding was cut, too.

Metro buses are pretty good, actually, as they are all low-floor. But Ulsterbus you have to warn in advance. Then, the other day, one I had requested didn’t turn up for our nice day out to Newcastle.

This week is Carers Week and there is going to be a meeting at Stormont about how best to support elderly carers. But what about the daughters of the elderly? I am not the only one — there are loads of us.

All the heroic daughters of the elderly are getting older — I am starting to develop arthritis myself.