New research suggests that older people are fairing better in the recession than any other group.

Figures from the Central Statistics Office (CSO) shows older people have escaped the cutbacks with their incomes relatively intact.

Between 2009 and 2010 the average weekly income for people aged over-65 dropped by just 6%.

While social transfers from the State actually increased over that same period.

Dermot Kirwan is a spokesperson for Friends of the Elderly and thinks the report can be misconstrued.

He spoke with Breakfast here on Newstalk.

What do you think? Should the State be helping to pay for elderly care?