Elderly care service deficiencies in FBiH

An audit of elderly care services in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina (FBiH) covering the period from 2023 to 2025 has identified significant deficiencies in staffing, facilities, and oversight. The review examined several institutions, including social welfare ministries and care homes in Sarajevo, Tuzla, and Mostar.

Auditors reported critical shortages of healthcare workers, specifically caregivers and physiotherapists, which limits the ability to provide intensive care. Specific concerns were raised regarding the lack of adequate conditions for residents with dementia, poor nutritional monitoring, and inconsistent professional oversight by ministries. The audit also noted a lack of strategic documentation and standardized regulations to address the needs of an aging population.

In addition to service quality issues, the cost of care is placing a heavy burden on families. While public facility costs begin at approximately 900 KM, private accommodations can reach 2,800 KM per month. In regions such as Mostar, demand for care has exceeded capacity by 25 to 30 percent, often forcing retirees to rely on personal loans or private sector options due to unaffordable costs relative to standard pensions.