Thirsty,
The main reason for keeping it up, is for any minor procedures/surgeries that may occur.
For example, cataract surgery etc. Another deciding factor is the age and overall health of the person.
If the person has any ongoing health issues that may need hospital attention at some stage.
For the over 80s, the tendancy of the medical profession is not to do major surgery if possible.
Unless there is no other option, they avoid it altogether.
What plan are they on at the moment?
It might be an option to change to a better priced plan, that suits their present situation.
They would be brought to A+E if any medical emergency occurs.
Once they have a medical card, they would be covered for the A+E charge and any nights spent in a public hospital.
The nightly cost if you don't have a medical card or health insurance, is 80 euro per night in a public hospital.
The max charge per year is 80 x 10 nights = 800, regardless of how long they spend in hospital.
Regards, Snowyb