Poland’s government will increase its senior support benefit to 2,500 zł and launch the program in October, according to a draft regulation presented by Marzena Okła-Drewnowicz, the government’s plenipotentiary for senior policy. The benefit, originally planned at 2,150 zł, will provide in-kind assistance such as help with shopping, meal preparation, cleaning, or medical appointments through trained caregivers, with the state covering the full cost.
Eligibility is limited to individuals aged 65 and older who cannot perform basic daily activities due to age or health, lack a caregiver, and have a monthly income below 3,410 zł, a threshold tied to twice the minimum pension and adjusted annually. Municipalities will have 30 days to process applications and may set higher benefit levels locally. Priority will be given to seniors with the greatest unmet needs, with age serving as a tiebreaker.
The government has allocated 100 million zł for the program, which will not provide cash payments but direct services. Okła-Drewnowicz’s proposal links the benefit’s maximum value to the rising minimum wage, ensuring future adjustments .
