Urgent action is needed to address the challenges facing the elderly population, including providing electricity subsidies for home temperature management, increasing specialized healthcare facilities, and implementing emergency support systems. Advocacy groups are calling for a dedicated deputy ministry focused on elderly affairs as the aging population continues to grow and face ongoing issues with healthcare, technology, and social welfare.
The Third Age Observatory is pushing for urgent measures to protect vulnerable seniors during heatwaves. Advocating for air conditioning in care homes, financial relief for lowincome pensioners, and a dedicated deputy ministry for elderly concerns, the organization aims to prevent heatrelated illnesses and tragedies among the elderly population.
Elderly patients are staying too long in hospitals in Cyprus due to a lack of posthospitalization care options and families’ hesitancy to transition them to specialized facilities. This strains healthcare resources, causes bed shortages, and delays treatment for other patients, leading to a growing crisis in the country’s healthcare system.
Emergency bracelets for the elderly with red buttons are in the works to provide quick access to help. This lifesaving feature will give seniors peace of mind and greater independence, aligning with global efforts to enhance elderly care through technology.
The accused carer in the elderly care home incident in Famagusta, involving the beating of 100yearold resident Saban Disko, was granted bail for 70,000TL with two guarantors pledging 300,000TL, raising concerns about elder care standards. The incident’s legal proceedings in Famagusta, unfolding before judge Aysu Cakan Alakan, have shed light on the vulnerability of the elderly in care facilities, prompting calls for enhanced care practices and a reexamination of care home standards.
President Nikos Christodoulides has revealed a series of initiatives to improve elderly care in Cyprus, including a national strategy for active aging, prompt payment of pensions, an overhaul of the pension system, specialized public transport services for the elderly, and a strengthened social protection network. These measures aim to enhance the welfare and quality of life for the elderly population in Cyprus, ensuring they receive the support and services they need.
The National Action Plan for the Elderly aims to enhance the quality of life and societal inclusion for senior citizens, championing their rights, wellbeing, and active participation in society. Through a collaborative effort across multiple ministries and engagement with NGOs and good practices from other countries, the plan seeks to ensure a dignified and opportunityrich third age for the aging population.
