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Ensuring Suitable Living Conditions for Seniors and Disabled Individuals: A Look at the Implemented Measures

In the region of Yakutia, characterized by severe weather and remote location, offering adequate social infrastructure for the elderly and physically impaired faces considerable hurdles. Despite dedication by authorities to enhance living standards for this vulnerable demographic, ongoing...

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In Yakutia, the challenging climate and remote location exacerbate issues in providing suitable...
In Yakutia, the challenging climate and remote location exacerbate issues in providing suitable living conditions for the elderly and disabled. Despite government initiatives to enhance their quality of life, ongoing issues persist, such as lack of familial support and high self-reliance demands.

Ensuring Suitable Living Conditions for Seniors and Disabled Individuals: A Look at the Implemented Measures

Improving Social Infrastructure for the Elderly and Disabled in Yakutia

Amid harsh climatic conditions and remote locations, Yakutia, one of Russia's largest regions, is actively addressing the challenges faced by its elderly and disabled population. The regional Ministry of Labor and Social Development is spearheading efforts to advance the living conditions of these citizens through an expansive network of state and non-state social services institutions.

Presently, the ministry oversees 96 organizations providing various services, with 81 being state-funded and 15 being privately managed. Their services cater to the elderly and disabled, with accommodation options including 13 homes for the aged, 6 specialized homes, and 8 private nursing homes adhering to federal safety and sanitation standards.

Recent initiatives such as the 395-bed psycho-neurological home in the Aldan district, dormitories in the Viluisk and Olekminsky districts, and a 65-bed home in Nanz have substantially improved conditions for regional residents in need of constant care. Future plans include the opening of a 51-bed home in the village of Matta, Megino-Kangalassky District, scheduled for completion in 2025.

The Endowment Fund of Social Service Institutions houses 1188 beds for elderly citizens and disabled individuals requiring constant care, as well as 217 beds in the non-governmental sector – accounting for 18 percent of the total number of beds in state institutions. Additional beds cater to minors, including orphaned children and those without fixed residences.

The reasons for placing elderly individuals in homes for the aged span a range of circumstances, including the absence of close relatives, family members' refusal to care for their parents, and health limitations that necessitate professional assistance. To secure a spot in one of these facilities, applicants must submit an application to the Department of Social Protection. Assessment visits to their homes and the compilation of a social card are crucial steps in the application process, along with necessary health-related documents confirming age, disability status, or being 60 years old or more.

Unfortunately, private nursing homes operate outside state control due to insufficient legislation regulating and controlling these facilities. To address this issue, state Duma deputies advocate for licensing all private homes for the aged and nursing homes, as well as creating a transparent registry accessible to the public. Enhanced control measures, including unhindered inspections by Rospotrebnadzor and fire control officials, are also suggested to improve service quality, safeguard the elderly, and prevent tragedies.

An alternative solution to improve the quality of life for the elderly and disabled population is the creation of foster families. Since its introduction in 2013, Yakutia has successfully implemented this approach as a means to prevent social isolation, maintain a familiar home environment, and even reduce waiting lists in stationary social care institutions. To qualify as a foster family, candidates must undergo training, provide necessary documents confirming identity, right to housing, and health status, and gain the support of their family members.

In Zhigansky District, the GKBU of the Republic of Sakha "Zhigansky Comprehensive Center for Social Protection of the Population" exemplifies the practical application of these initiatives. Established in 1993, the center is comprised of two departments – social care for the elderly and disabled, and a children's department. Offering round-the-clock and daytime accommodation, the center serves multiple districts and provides various recreational activities tailored to residents' needs and interests.

Despite challenges such as insufficient legislation and illegal private nursing homes, Yakutia continues to strive for modern social infrastructure addressing the unique requirements of its elderly and disabled population. The combination of official care facilities, foster families, and continuous government efforts toward service improvement ensures a brighter future for the region's vulnerable group.

  1. In discussions about satellite towns, the topic of enhancing the quality of life for elderly and disabled citizens in Yakutia is crucial.
  2. The Yakutia Ministry of Labor and Social Development has overseen 96 organizations providing diverse services, 81 of which are state-funded.
  3. Services for the elderly and disabled range from accommodations such as 13 homes for the aged, 6 specialized homes, and 8 private nursing homes adhering to federal standards.
  4. Recent initiatives, like the 395-bed psycho-neurological home in Aldan district, have improved living conditions for regional residents.
  5. The future plan includes a 51-bed home in Matta, Megino-Kangalassky District, set to open in 2025.
  6. The Endowment Fund supports 1188 beds for elderly citizens and disabled individuals requiring constant care.
  7. Mental and neurological disorders are among the reasons for elderly individuals' placement in homes for the aged.
  8. State control is needed over private nursing homes to ensure quality and prevent tragic incidents.
  9. Fostering initiatives have been successful in preventing social isolation for the elderly population in Yakutia since 2013.
  10. To qualify as a foster family, candidates undergo training, provide necessary documents, and secure family support.
  11. The Zhigansky Comprehensive Center for Social Protection of the Population exemplifies practical application in Zhigansky District.
  12. Social infrastructure improvements in Yakutia extend to services addressing medical conditions and chronic diseases, including cancer, respiratory conditions, and digestive health.
  13. Other aspects such as eye health, hearing, skin care, and mental health are vital in health and wellness programs for the elderly and disabled.
  14. Additionally, fitness and exercise, nutrition, weight management, and cardiovascular health are essential factors now incorporated into these programs, addressing issues related to aging and well-being for men, women, and medically vulnerable populations, like those with autoimmune disorders, diabetes, and neurological disorders.

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