The European Union recognizes the rights of older people as a fundamental part of human rights. The EU Charter of Fundamental Rights explicitly guarantees in Article 25 the right of elderly people to lead a dignified and independent life and to participate in social and cultural life. In practice, this means that no EU country may discriminate against citizens based on age in access to healthcare, social services, or the labor market.
The European Pillar of Social Rights from 2017 establishes that everyone has the right to affordable, quality long-term care services. This includes home care, residential facilities, and community services. Member states are obligated to ensure these services are accessible and respect the dignity and autonomy of recipients.
In practice, however, the quality of care varies significantly between countries. Nordic countries and Germany offer well-developed long-term care systems, while in Central and Eastern European countries, care is often provided informally by family members without adequate state support.
Elder abuse — physical, psychological, financial, or in the form of neglect — is a serious problem in Europe, affecting an estimated 1 in 6 older people. The EU supports member states in combating this phenomenon through awareness campaigns, professional training, and strengthening the legal framework for protecting vulnerable persons.
The EU Work-Life Balance Directive of 2019 recognizes the rights of informal caregivers, including the right to carers’ leave and flexible working arrangements. This is an important step, as the majority of long-term care in Europe is provided by family members, often at the expense of their own health, careers, and financial stability.
Sources: Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, European Pillar of Social Rights, World Health Organization — Report on Elder Abuse, EU Directive 2019/1158 on Work-Life Balance.
March 27, 2026
