This guide was developed to help health service boards, clinicians, executive teams, staff and community members assess, plan and contribute to the establishment of an age-friendly health service.

Many older people enjoy a long, healthy life. However, many struggle with chronic ill-health. Almost half of all hospital patients are people aged sixty-five and over. While in hospital, older people, even those who are otherwise well, are at significant risk of healthcare-related harm, separate from the reason for their admission. Age-friendly environments have a substantial role in preventing or delaying many of the health problems related to ageing and chronic disease.

The guide is designed to be used by a team of clinicians, non-clinical staff, and older people in a health service setting, whether an acute hospital, sub-acute, residential aged care, primary health, or a community health service.