Initiative to Support the Elderly
Ihor Terekhov, the Mayor of Kharkiv and leader of the Association of Frontline Cities and Communities, has called for the development of a long-term national strategy to support the elderly. His proposals include expanding social care systems, medical prevention, modern support services, and accessible environments. This initiative addresses a critical need, as humanitarian organizations estimate that over half of Ukraine's elderly population feels abandoned.
Addressing Loneliness and Expanding Care
Terekhov identified loneliness as the most significant challenge facing older people:
“The greatest problem of old age is loneliness. According to humanitarian organizations, over half of the elderly in Ukraine feel abandoned. This is a challenge the state must answer.” - Ihor Terekhov
He emphasized that the proposed social care system could create up to 100-150 thousand new jobs in the caregiving sector. “A social care system is not just social policy. It also means new jobs. Therefore, developing social services can become a significant source of employment and growth for local economies,” the Mayor added. This plan is particularly relevant for a nation with a large and growing elderly demographic.
The strategic proposals encompass:
- combining state guarantees;
- developing municipal social services;
- engaging public and private organizations.
Specific initiatives involve developing a network of patronage services for home care, domestic assistance, and social support, as well as introducing tax incentives for private social service providers. In the face of current challenges, these proposed changes could substantially improve the quality of life for Ukraine's senior citizens.
The proposed strategy for supporting the elderly in Ukraine represents a crucial step in tackling issues of social isolation and insufficient attention to the needs of the older generation. Given demographic shifts and the increasing number of elderly people in the country, implementing these initiatives could become a key factor in enhancing social welfare. Furthermore, the development of social services can stimulate the creation of new jobs, positively impacting regional economies.