On Tuesday, May 5, the Polish government approved a draft law introducing a service-based senior voucher program for citizens aged 65 and older, backed by a 1 billion PLN budget.
Overview of the Senior Voucher Program
On Tuesday, May 5, the Polish Council of Ministers approved a draft law regarding the coordination of long-term care and support for the elderly, including the introduction of a senior voucher for those aged 65 and older. Between 2026 and 2028, the program will be supported by 1 billion PLN, and the project now awaits proceedings in the Sejm.
The program is a new social policy instrument designed to assist seniors in their daily functioning to avoid the need for institutional care. Instead of cash, the benefit will be provided through assistance services delivered in the senior’s place of residence.
Services Included in the Senior Voucher
The voucher will include services such as home help and support in the daily lives of seniors. Local municipalities will decide on the granting of the voucher by assessing whether a senior has unmet needs in areas such as shopping, hygiene, or daily organization.
Service Provider Requirements and Family Exclusions
Services must be provided by adults who are physically and mentally capable and trained in senior care and first aid. Notably, the law specifies that services cannot be provided by a senior’s closest family, including children, parents, or a spouse living separately.
Income Criteria and Implementation
The benefit is not automatically available to all seniors; the average monthly income over the last three months must not exceed 3,410 PLN, and a demonstration of unmet daily needs is required. Implementation will prioritize municipalities that currently lack care services or where services cover a maximum of 10 people.
The program will be funded by the state budget in the form of a targeted grant.