Abstract
This paper describes the development of a Programme of Care for elderly people in Northern Ireland. The problems of the elderly were previously identified, and a classification system was designed in key areas which allocated groups of individuals with similar needs to particular services. It was thus possible to quantify the resources required to meet the future needs of elderly people in Northern Ireland. The major implications for the Health and Social Services were then stressed on the basis of certain assumptions. Generally, resources are currently being channelled in the right direction but considerable expansion of resources is necessary in the future especially in community care. In showing one method of planning services for the elderly people and the possible results, this study also offers a methodology to assist the planning process in general.