Exploring the EU countries’ experience in social support for older persons
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.25128/2520-6230.24.3.7Keywords:
social support, social services, older persons, integrated care, EU countries, UkraineAbstract
The article presents the results of an analysis of social support systems for older persons in three EU countries: Ireland, Poland, and Croatia. The primary sources of information were official documents and statistics from government websites, supplemented by secondary analysis of reports and other studies.
The research focuses on a wide range of services, including residential geriatric care, day centers, home assistance, club programs, and initiatives aimed at the social integration of older persons. It also highlights alternative forms of care, such as placement in private households, family care homes, social housing, and specially adapted housing. Poland's experience in supporting local communities in establishing day centers and clubhouses is particularly valuable for Ukraine.
The paper discusses integrated medical-social approaches, the coordination of services by health and social policy ministries, and the role of private institutions and non-governmental organizations in providing services.
Special attention is given to regulatory mechanisms, quality standards, and transparency of information. Transparency is ensured through centralized resources where information about service providers and the possibility of applying for services is available.
The possibility of implementing the European experience at the level of territorial communities in Ukraine to improve the accessibility and quality of social services for older persons is discussed. The article suggests ways to adapt and implement European practices in the context of the Ukrainian social protection system, including the development and implementation of relevant legislative norms and standards, the development of cooperation with the private sector and non-governmental organizations, and investments in technological solutions to enhance the safety and independence of older persons.
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