Ombudsman Karina Palkova stated that the quality of social services in state and municipal elderly care centers raises serious concerns in some cases. In an interview with the program "Morning Panorama" on Latvian television, she mentioned that during her visits to the regions, she observed both institutions with a high level of organizational work and centers where the situation, according to her, was extremely unsatisfactory. According to Palkova, the rights of elderly people to a dignified old age, safe living conditions, and access to medical care are far from being respected everywhere. These are state and municipal institutions, so the quality of care can vary significantly depending on the specific center. Such differences, as the ombudsman noted, cause the greatest concern. "Of course, I am worried about the situation of elderly people in these centers," emphasized Palkova. She reported that work on this issue will continue. In the near future, the ombudsman intends to present a special report that will reflect the real situation in social care centers. The document should provide a more complete picture of the existing problems and show what changes may be needed to improve the quality of care for the elderly.
