Running a senior home is a noble challenge that involves complying with legal regulations and taking responsibility for the health and safety of the residents. In Poland, to open and operate a care home for the elderly, a number of formal requirements must be met, and the appropriate administrative procedures must be followed. In this article, we present the most important requirements and formalities that must be fulfilled to legally run a senior home.
A care home for the elderly can be established by either an individual or a legal entity, such as a foundation, association, or company. It is important that the person establishing the senior home has knowledge and experience in elderly care, which is confirmed by appropriate qualifications. Completed courses or training in medical care, psychology, or managing care facilities are highly valued and can significantly increase the chances of obtaining the required permits.
A key factor is the selection and preparation of a suitable building. The building where the senior home is to operate must meet certain standards and be adapted to the needs of the elderly. Here are the most important building requirements:
No architectural barriers – the building must be accessible to people with limited mobility, for example, it should have ramps for wheelchairs and wide corridors.
Elevators in multi-story buildings – if the building has more than one floor, installing an elevator is necessary.
Appropriate sanitary facilities – bathrooms must be adapted to the needs of people with limited mobility, including special handrails and enough space for wheelchair users.
Rooms for therapy and recreational activities – the space should allow for organizing occupational therapy and activities that support the health and well-being of the residents.
Additionally, the building must obtain positive opinions from the health authority (Sanepid) and the State Fire Service, confirming that the premises meet sanitary and fire safety standards.
To legally operate a senior home, the necessary permits must be obtained. Here are the steps that need to be taken:
Registration in the care facility registry – the senior home must be registered in the care facility registry maintained by the voivode (regional governor). This is a mandatory step without which the facility cannot operate.
Sanitary approval – the premises must be approved by the health authority (Sanepid), confirming that the sanitary conditions in the building comply with regulations.
Fire safety approval – the State Fire Service must issue an opinion confirming that the building meets fire safety requirements.
Registration with the municipal or city office – the senior home must be registered with the local office, either as a business or a statutory activity.
To ensure high-quality care for the elderly, qualified personnel must be employed. A care home must have staff with the necessary qualifications, including:
Elderly caregivers – they should have relevant education or completed vocational courses in elderly care.
Nurses – at least one nurse should be employed full-time to provide adequate medical care to the residents.
Occupational therapists and physiotherapists – their role is to support the physical and mental activity of the residents, which positively affects their health and quality of life.
Hiring the right personnel is crucial to ensure the safety, comfort, and good care of the residents in the senior home.
Operating a senior home requires compliance with certain care standards. It must ensure:
Health and nursing care – tailored to the needs of the residents, including access to basic medical care.
Nutrition – adapted to the individual dietary needs of the seniors, taking their health condition into account.
Recreational activities and occupational therapy – organized to maintain the physical and mental activity of the residents.
Psychological support – assistance in adapting to life in the care home, ensuring well-being, and promoting social integration.
Ensuring the well-being and comfort of the residents is essential to creating a warm, homely atmosphere and allowing for a dignified old age.
Running a senior home is a task that requires great responsibility, expertise, and compliance with numerous formal requirements. Before deciding to open a facility, it is worth familiarizing oneself with the applicable regulations and preparing a detailed action plan. This will ensure that seniors receive dignified and professional care while avoiding legal and administrative issues.
October 17, 2024