Turkey has a rapidly aging population, with the number of people aged 65 and over projected to reach 11.8 million by 2040. With this demographic shift comes an increasing demand for elderly care services. In this article, we will explore the availability and standard of residential homes, care homes, and nursing homes in Turkey, and how elderly people are treated.
Availability of Elderly Care Homes in Turkey
In Turkey, elderly care is provided through a combination of public and private sector facilities. There are three types of elderly care homes available:
1. Residential Homes
Residential homes are facilities that provide accommodation, meals, and daily care services for elderly people who require some level of assistance with their daily activities. These homes are suitable for people who do not require round-the-clock medical attention but need help with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, and taking medication.
In Turkey, residential homes are mostly run by the private sector. They offer services such as social and recreational activities, housekeeping, and laundry services. Some homes also have medical staff to attend to the residents’ health needs.
2. Care Homes
Care homes provide accommodation and medical care for elderly people who require more intensive care than what is available in a residential home but do not require hospitalization. Care homes are suitable for people with chronic medical conditions or disabilities that require ongoing medical attention.
In Turkey, care homes are usually run by the public sector, and residents are entitled to free healthcare services provided by the government. Care homes provide 24-hour medical supervision and care, along with assistance with daily living tasks.
3. Nursing Homes
Nursing homes provide round-the-clock medical care for elderly people who require constant medical attention and supervision. Nursing homes are suitable for people with chronic medical conditions, disabilities, or advanced dementia who require a high level of medical care.
In Turkey, nursing homes are also run by the public sector, and residents are entitled to free healthcare services provided by the government. Nursing homes provide medical care, rehabilitation, and physiotherapy services, along with assistance with daily living tasks.
Standards of Elderly Care Homes in Turkey
The standard of care in elderly homes in Turkey varies widely. While some homes provide excellent care and facilities, others may not meet the necessary standards of care. The government is working to improve the quality of care in elderly homes by setting standards for the facilities and staff.
The Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Services is responsible for overseeing and regulating elderly care homes in Turkey. They conduct regular inspections of the facilities to ensure that they meet the necessary standards of care.
In 2020, the government launched a new project called “Kaliteli Huzurevi” (Quality Elderly Care Home) to improve the quality of care in elderly homes. The project aims to improve the physical conditions of the facilities, the quality of the food provided, and the training of the staff.
Cost of Elderly Care Homes in Turkey
The cost of elderly care homes in Turkey varies depending on the type of facility and the level of care required. Private residential homes are generally more expensive than public care and nursing homes.
The government provides subsidies for elderly care homes, which makes them more affordable for low-income families. However, the subsidies do not cover the full cost of care, and families may still have to pay some out-of-pocket expenses.
In conclusion, elderly care in Turkey is provided through a combination of public and private sector facilities, including residential homes, care homes, and nursing homes. While the standard of care in these facilities varies, the government is working to improve the quality of care through regulation and standards.
The cost of care can be a barrier for some families, but the government provides subsidies to make elderly care homes more affordable. As Turkey’s population continues to age, it is essential to continue improving the quality of care in elderly homes and ensuring that they are accessible to everyone who needs them.
If you or a loved one requires elderly care in Turkey, it is essential to research the available options thoroughly and choose a facility that meets your specific needs. The Ministry of Family, Labor, and Social Services website provides a list of registered elderly care homes in Turkey, along with their contact information and inspection reports.
Additionally, it is essential to visit the facility in person and speak with the staff to get a sense of the level of care provided. This can help ensure that you or your loved one receives the best possible care in a safe and supportive environment.
