The state does not intend, at this stage, to proceed with a further increase in allowances for the accommodation of elderly people in care homes, despite the fact that the cost of residential care continues, in many cases, to exceed families’ financial means.
This emerges from a response by the Ministry of Labour to a parliamentary question submitted by MP Nikos Kettirou, who raised concerns about whether existing allowances are sufficient in light of rising charges by elderly care facilities. In his question, the MP noted that discussions with citizens and families of elderly people indicate that fees charged by care homes have increased significantly and are no longer covered by state allowances. He asked whether the government intends to examine additional support or an increase in relevant benefits.
State support
In its response, the Ministry of Labour referred to measures already in place, arguing that the allowance policy for elderly care home accommodation has been substantially strengthened. As stated, the Council of Ministers approved the Residential and Care Subsidy Scheme for Elderly Homes in October 2024, which has been implemented since 2025.
According to the ministry, the scheme provides income-based subsidies for 24-hour care services, with the maximum monthly benefit now reaching €1,300, compared with €745 prior to its introduction. At the same time, the group of beneficiaries has been expanded to include low-income pensioners, in addition to recipients of the Guaranteed Minimum Income, subject to specific conditions.
The scheme also introduces a mechanism to regulate increases in monthly fees imposed by care providers. For accommodation costing up to €1,000, the maximum permitted increase is set at 10%; for fees ranging from €1,001 to €1,200, the limit is 8%; and for amounts exceeding €1,200, increases are capped at 5%.
Beyond direct allowances, the ministry also referred to funding for social care programmes through State Aid Schemes, amounting to more than €1 million in 2024.
No dedicated facilities for abused elderly people
The issue of elderly care, however, extends beyond accommodation costs and subsidies. Concerns have also been raised regarding the protection of elderly people who are victims of abuse, with the Ministry of Labour acknowledging that there are currently no specialised facilities or shelters dedicated exclusively to this group.
In response to a separate question by MP Alexandra Attalidou, the ministry said that no such structures are currently in operation and that, where a need arises, the Social Welfare Services proceed with temporary arrangements.
According to the ministry, the issue has been included in the National Strategy for Active Ageing 2025–2030. However, at this stage, there is no provision for the creation of specialised facilities for abused elderly persons.
This article was originally published on the Greek-language Politis website.