The government is getting closer to developing a solution that, in simple terms, can be described as free care in a seniors' home. It is possible that the senior voucher will come into force in 2026, which can be a great support for the elderly, but also for their families.
The senior voucher is a package of care services, and the assistance will include, among others: preparing meals, maintaining hygiene, shopping, organizing medical visits and support in everyday functioning.
Free home care for seniors 65+. Who will benefit from the senior voucher?
As Infor.pl reminds, the value of support is to be up to PLN 2,150 per month, but it will not be a transfer to an account, but the value of services organized by the commune.
The new program is intended not only to improve the quality of life of seniors, but also to reduce situations in which their loved ones have to give up work to take care of them. The government also hopes to create new jobs in the care sector.
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The program will benefit people over 65 years of age who require help in everyday life. The commune will decide on whether to grant support, taking into account the senior's health, independence and living situation. The income criterion will also be important – the average income cannot exceed PLN 3,410 per month.
The senior voucher is also intended to help families
Assistance will not cover people who exceed the income criteria, do not require daily care, already benefit from 24-hour institutional care or have constant care in a facility.
As explained by Infor.pl, the implementation of the program will take place through municipalities. They will be responsible for accepting applications, but also for assessing the senior's situation and organizing specific assistance. Care will be provided by care service workers, social organizations and local carers after special training.
Senior voucher. Who will not benefit from the new aid program?
The program is to start on September 1, 2026 and will be implemented in stages in the years 2026–2028, and the state plans to allocate approximately PLN 1 billion for its implementation as follows:
in 2026 – PLN 100 million
in 2027 – PLN 400 million
in 2028 – PLN 500 million.
The amount of specific assistance depends on the number of hours of services, and the decision will be made after a community interview.
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The regulations provide for several scenarios in which a senior may be excluded from the program. According to the assumptions, the following people will lose the right to support, among others: people who already receive 24-hour care in DPS, ZOL or ZPO and receive other care benefits. Importantly, services cannot be provided by the senior's closest relatives to avoid transferring money to the family.
