Elderly care crisis in Veneto region

The Veneto region, particularly in the provinces of Padova and Verona, is experiencing a growing crisis in elderly care characterized by rising costs and systemic shortages.

In Padova, increasing energy and utility expenses are driving up residential care facility (RSA) fees, which can already exceed 2,000 euros per month. With costs expected to rise further, many pensioners—approximately 25% of whom earn up to 750 euros monthly—cannot afford care, forcing families to bear the financial burden. Anp Cia Padova has called for structural reforms to address economic unsustainability and long waiting lists.

In Verona, the situation has escalated to include significant placement delays, with the Spi Cgil union reporting that 2,000 seniors are on waiting lists in the Ulss 9 Scaligera district. Regional waiting lists total approximately 12,000 individuals. Families face even higher private fees, averaging between 3,000 and 4,000 euros per month. Beyond financial and capacity issues, concerns regarding facility standards have emerged, including the closure of a kitchen at the Villa Monga nursing home due to unhygienic conditions. In response, labor unions are advocating for a ‘Pact for Non-Self-Sufficiency’ to increase public resources and improve home care services.