More than 90% of Irish adults have not set out their wishes and preferences for future healthcare and treatments – and the majority are not aware of the need to do so, or how to do it.

Just 4% of Irish adults have completed a legally recognised plan for their future care and treatment, called an Advance Healthcare Directive, while 72% are either unaware of the option to do so or would not know how to put one in place – according to new research.

The RED C research was commissioned by Safeguarding Ireland and launched on Adult Safeguarding Day (November 10) – a nationwide initiative coordinated by Safeguarding Ireland and supported by the HSE – to raise understanding of adult safeguarding and help to help prevent abuse.

The survey of a representative sample of 1,000 adults found that just 6% of adults had nominated a designated healthcare representative, and 5% had documented their wishes on where they would like to be cared for.

Regarding finances and property, just 11% had made an enduring power of attorney, which while higher than previous Safeguarding Ireland research of 6%, still remains very low by international standards. In many European countries, a majority of adults have an EPA in place.

Safeguarding Ireland chairperson Patricia Rickard-Clarke said planning ahead important life decisions on finances, property, healthcare and medical treatments – and appointing a trusted person to act on our behalf if needed – is recognised to be the key action people can take to safeguard against adult abuse.