Significant differences exist in policy, structures, coverage and funding between the healthcare systems of the Republic of Ireland (RoI) and Northern Ireland (NI). These differences – a ‘one island – two systems’ situation – provide a unique opportunity to learn by comparing the health and social status and service experiences of two groups of older people on one island. 

The aim of this report is to compare health and social status and related service provision in the RoI and NI from the perspective of community-dwelling older people needing and/or using these services. Part of this comparison includes evaluation of possible urban/rural differences within and across regions.