Despite the passing years and significant funding from the European Union, Poland still struggles to ensure independent and dignified living for people with disabilities. The latest reports prepared for the European Parliament clearly indicate that the support system remains largely based on institutional care rather than community-based solutions that would allow people to participate fully in society.
In theory, for years there has been discussion about the need for deinstitutionalization – a gradual shift away from large care facilities toward local support services, assisted living, and community-based assistance. In practice, however, these changes are happening very slowly, and many people remain isolated from social life, without real opportunities for independence.
Statistics reveal the scale of the problem. The number of adult Poles living in care homes has increased dramatically – from 34,000 in 2012 to nearly 64,000 in 2022. This growth suggests that instead of promoting independence, the system is increasingly relying on institutional placement.
Experts emphasize that this rapid increase is not solely the result of an aging population. To a large extent, it reflects the lack of alternative forms of support, such as home care, personal assistance services, and supported housing. For many families, placing a relative in an institution remains the only realistic option.
As early as 2018, the UN Committee criticized Poland for its lack of determination in the process of deinstitutionalization. At that time, the need for rapid reforms and the creation of a system supporting independent living within local communities was strongly emphasized.
According to the latest analyses, the situation had not significantly improved by 2026. Despite strategies, programs, and political declarations, the implementation of concrete solutions has been slow. Many people continue to remain in a system that isolates rather than integrates.
The problem is further intensified by the difficult financial situation of people from vulnerable groups. As many as half of them live below the poverty line, which significantly limits their ability to live independently and make real choices about their future.
Housing costs consume an average of 40% of their already modest incomes. As a result, even those who could live partially independently are often unable to afford to live outside institutional settings. Many end up in care facilities not out of necessity, but due to a lack of viable alternatives.
Low financial support and limited access to social services mean that independent living remains, for many, only a theoretical possibility. Without stable economic conditions, real freedom of choice is difficult to achieve.
Experts also warn that the state does not effectively monitor the situation of people living in care institutions. There is no coherent system for collecting data, assessing quality of life, or evaluating the long-term effectiveness of support measures.
Without reliable monitoring, it is difficult to determine the actual needs of residents and whether the support provided truly improves their living conditions. This makes meaningful reform more difficult and contributes to the persistence of the status quo.
As a result, Poland has remained in a state of structural stagnation for years. Despite available funding, reports, and international recommendations, people with disabilities too often remain on the margins of society, while the care system continues to isolate rather than support their independence.
February 9, 2026
