Padova elderly care costs rise, straining families

Rising costs for residential care facilities (RSA) in the province of Padova are creating a social emergency for elderly residents and their families. According to Anp Cia Padova, approximately 25% of pensioners in the area receive a monthly income of up to 750 euros, a sum insufficient to cover modern care costs.

Due to increased energy and utility expenses, RSA fees are expected to rise by an additional 4 to 5 euros per day starting this autumn, potentially adding up to 1,800 euros to annual expenses. Current monthly fees frequently exceed 2,000 euros. When pensions and available support are inadequate, the financial burden falls on family members, sometimes forcing them to sell family homes to cover the deficit.

Carlo Miatello, president of Anp Cia Padova, has called for structural reforms to the sector, which has remained largely unchanged for over twenty years. The association is seeking intervention from regional authorities to address long waiting lists and the economic unsustainability of care, noting that insufficient family resources ultimately place increased pressure on municipal budgets.