The measure of our society is the way we treat disabled people and their carers

CARERS work quietly and alone looking after loved ones, some of whom are mentally disabled, some physically disabled, and some of whom are both.

Others look after elderly relatives who suffer from dementia andrequire round-the-clock care.

Some carers are elderly, having devoted their entire lives to looking after sons or daughters. Many have given up work and opportunities to care for relatives while others have never had the chance to work.

Many carers live lives of quiet desperation without remuneration. The aim should be to allow those with disabilities as much freedom and independence as possible. Their physical needs should be met but so, too, should their emotional and psychological needs. There is a shortage of occupational therapists and speech and language therapists.

Accessibility to home, public buildings and venues is also important. Electronic wheelchairs are not so much to ask for those with a disability, but they are costly for someone of limited means. Mental illness is probably the one form of disability that is least discussed. For example, it is not well understood why some people become depressed and others do not. The measure of our civilisation is in the way we treat those who cannot speak on their own behalf.

Cllr Noel Collins

‘St Jude’s’

Midleton

Co Cork