Dialogos

Christodoulides Promises Enhanced Support for Seniors with New Measures and Increased Spending

Published January 9, 2026, 20:01
Christodoulides Promises Enhanced Support for Seniors with New Measures and Increased Spending

President Christodoulides announced significant increases in spending on the social welfare state, aiming to strengthen pensions and improve the quality of life for the elderly. Spending is expected to rise by 5% in 2025 and 6.5% in 2026, reaching approximately 600 million euros. The government is targeting a substantial reform of the pension system, with a focus on boosting pensions for low-income retirees, as the last major change was made in 1980. Alongside this, the new Larna Municipal Elderly Residence 'Evanthia Pieridou' was inaugurated, offering modern facilities and dignified living conditions for 48 residents. The government has already implemented a range of policies to support seniors, including the First National Strategy for Active Aging, which comprises 45 initiatives. Furthermore, the allowance for accommodation and care in elderly homes has been increased from 745 to 1,300 euros, and there are also home care programs such as 'Red Button' and 'Neighborhood Social Worker'. Currently, 85% of elderly homes participate in these programs, with a goal of reaching 100%. The Mayor of Larnaca, Andreas Vyras, stated that the city will continue to invest in infrastructure and policies that promote the care, dignity, and active participation of seniors, in anticipation of the European Capital of Culture 2030. The project of the Elderly Residence cost 3.5 million euros and is part of the government's holistic approach to supporting the elderly.