Portuguese Communist Party proposes 80,000 new elderly care places

The Portuguese Communist Party (PCP) has introduced two legislative proposals aimed at improving elderly care and pension rights. One proposal calls for the creation of a public network of residential structures and support services for the elderly, with a target of adding at least 80,000 new places by 2027.

To achieve this, the PCP suggests the government conduct a geographic survey of elderly individuals on waiting lists for day centers and nursing homes. The party advocates for the expansion and requalification of social facilities, preferably by repurposing vacant public buildings or unused Social Security properties. These projects would be funded by the State Budget and potentially through community financing.

The second proposal seeks to restore the retirement age to 65, or allow retirement after 40 years of contributions without penalties. These measures were presented on the eve of International Day of Older Persons.