Bolzano Facing Growing Demand for Elderly Care
By 2035, the province of Bolzano in Italy is projected to see a 35% increase in the need for care and assistance for its elderly population. This alarming trend was revealed in a research collaboration between the Free University of Bolzano and the University of Innsbruck.
The study identified a significant financial burden associated with this surge in care needs. It estimates that an additional 1,700 beds and a proportionate increase in care providers will be necessary to adequately address the situation. The current annual budget for elderly care in the region stands at 750 million euros, but this will need to be increased by 402 million euros to 1 billion and 152 million euros by 2035.
“It is crucial to initiate a political discussion to share the burden of financing care between the public sector, families, and those with varying economic backgrounds,” stated Provincial President Arno Kompatscher. “Exploring innovative financing models, such as supplementary insurance for assistance, is also essential.”
The researchers emphasized the importance of ensuring that care is accessible and of high quality. “Financial resources are important, but they are not the only key factor,” said Professor Gottfried Tappeiner from the University of Innsbruck. “We need to develop sustainable strategies to guarantee quality care for the growing elderly population in South Tyrol.”