A/HRC/33/44 30. There are also programmes and policies that address specific groups of older persons, such as those living on the street, indigenous older persons and older lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersex persons. 31. Reference was also made in the responses to the Global Age-Friendly Cities project of the World Health Organization and its implementation. The project addresses eight areas of the urban and social environment that influence the health and quality of life of older persons. Cities and communities should adapt their structures and services to the needs of older persons in the following areas: public spaces and buildings, transport, housing, social participation, respect and social inclusion, civic participation and employment, communication, and community support and health services. C. Care 32. The Independent Expert’s report on autonomy and care contains an assessment of the challenges and concerns in the area of care, as well as detailed action-oriented recommendations. That report is complemented by the thematic study on the realization of the right to health of older persons by the Special Rapporteur on the right of everyone to the enjoyment of the highest attainable standard of physical and mental health (A/HRC/18/37). 33. Several good or promising practices were reported in the area of care. The responses, however, revealed the need for a comprehensive, all-encompassing and human rights-based approach to the care of older persons, as well as the need for coordination among sectors throughout the continuum of care, from prevention, promotion, rehabilitation, through to long-term and palliative care, including social care and other community services. 34. The existence of a dedicated body in charge of national coordination between sectors, institutions, regional and local governments can facilitate the implementation of a national strategy. Some countries, for instance, have created specific divisions or focal points at the ministerial level tasked with focusing on ageing initiatives and ensuring policy implementation. 35. Another interesting practice is the creation of a working group on care ethics within the Government, which studies ethical issues relating to care and provides non-binding advisory opinions. It also proposes the development of best practices and guidelines, as well as training subjects for professionals, for instance in the field of geriatric care ethics. 36. The right to extensive information on public support services and different means of nursing and care should be enshrined in the legislative framework. Adequate information about care, the rights of older persons and the protection available for older persons in care settings can be provided through various means, including websites, dedicated contact centres in care settings, resource centres and through other forms of advocacy. Educational materials are another important source of guidance for older persons. Clear information and advice help older persons to make informed choices about their care arrangements and enable them to stay in control of their lives. 37. The introduction of mandatory medical insurance facilitates equal access, including for older persons, to health-care services. Some countries provide access to public health care free of charge for older persons, which may include additional benefits for the most disadvantaged groups of older persons or those in precarious situations. 38. Older persons living in rural areas often have particular concerns, including in the enjoyment of their right to health. They may face challenges with regard to the availability of transportation to medical appointments, of home and community-based services and long-term care in their communities. Particular attention therefore needs to be paid to that 8 GE.16-11742