The international Community of Sant' Egidio, which has been helping the poor and marginalised since it was set up in Rome 30 years ago, has begun a Europe-wide campaign against the institutionalisation of elderly people.
It is preparing a petition on the issue for submission to the European Commission by the end of the year.
In a letter to interested parties Ms Nora Kirrane, of the Sant' Egidio "Long Live the Elderly" Dublin Committee, said: "We see a growing attitude towards solving the problems of older citizens, especially the disabled ones, by institutionalisation and the creation of structures only for them."
However, practical experience had "demonstrated how institutionalisation does not respond to the existential needs of the elderly, nor does it represent a real economic advantage for the health and social departments of our countries.
"Home care is more and more proving to be the most dignified and low-cost way to help the elderly in need."
Ms Kirrane's letter is accompanied by "Maria's Letter" from an elderly woman who wants to live at home. Maria is 75 and lives alone since her husband died and her two children married. Treasuring her independence, she wonders how much longer it will be allowed her.
"I do not believe that a bed, a locker, a cubicle and an anonymous life are better than your own house, where every single object, a picture, a photograph, has memories that fill the days.
"I could remain at home with a little home-help assistance," she said, disputing that this would cost more. "These services are three or four times less expensive than an eventual admission to an old people's home and an institution."
She said she might also live longer at home but "certainly I will live better".
Those wishing to support the Sant' Egidio petition may do so by contacting the community at 41 Cremore, off Greenmount Road, Terenure, Dublin 6. Phone (01) 4925186.
