Yakutia strengthens elderly care with new social security initiatives and community support

Yakutia is expanding its support for elderly residents through a series of social security projects and initiatives. The region, home to 191,000 people aged 60 and above, has rolled out new programmes to improve their quality of life. These efforts include financial aid, healthcare services, and community activities as part of broader national and federal schemes.

From October 1 to 10, Yakutia is also marking the Decade of Older Persons, highlighting the region's commitment to its ageing population.

The national project Family and the federal project Silver Age are now active in Yakutia, focusing on social protection for seniors. Among the region's elderly, there are over 120,000 labour veterans, more than 1,500 people aged 90 or older, and 19 centenarians. These long-lived residents receive special recognition: the honorary title Uyee Saas and a 1 million ruble payment, awarded by Yakutia's Head, Aisen Nikolaev.

To boost active ageing, seven municipalities in Yakutia have been granted subsidies totalling 7 million rubles for 2025. These funds will support local programmes aimed at keeping older adults engaged. Meanwhile, the School of the Third Age, a public organisation, has already reached 12,481 pensioners in the first half of the year.

Healthcare access remains a priority, particularly in remote areas. Mobile medical teams travel to rural districts, offering check-ups and delivering essential medicines and groceries. For those needing long-term care, 237 elderly citizens have been placed with foster families.

Beyond healthcare, over 300 organisations across Yakutia provide leisure activities for seniors. Options range from volunteer work and sports to cultural projects. New social technologies are also being introduced, such as the Social District initiative, Respite services for caregivers, and rental schemes for rehabilitation equipment.

These efforts come as Russia has paused the publication of national demographic data since early 2025, leaving regional figures like Yakutia's as key indicators of ageing trends.

Yakutia's initiatives reflect a structured approach to supporting its elderly population. With financial incentives, healthcare access, and community engagement, the region aims to improve living standards for its 191,000 seniors. The ongoing Decade of Older Persons further underscores the importance of these programmes in the years ahead.