An elderly man from a county seat is waiting to enter

According to the latest data from the Ministry of Social Affairs and Family, 48,070 people are currently waiting for elderly social care in Hungary. This includes 45,236 individuals seeking admission to nursing homes and 2,834 to care homes. The number of applicants slightly exceeds the population of Eger, which has 47,921 residents. There are 61,999 available places in care facilities nationwide, meaning the waiting list represents about 78% of the current capacity. However, not all applicants intend to move in immediately, as many prefer to receive care at home or at a later date. The ministry is in discussions with the Ministry of Health regarding the regulation of processes and resource allocation, but details remain undisclosed. The 24.hu series "Édes öregem" explores the challenges and conditions of elderly care in Hungary.