The study offers a comprehensive examination of Albania’s long-term care (LTC) system for older adults, focusing on both the demand for and supply of services in the context of rapid population aging and changing social dynamics. Conducted by UNDP Albania in partnership with key national institutions under the UN Joint Programme “Livelong Empowerment and Protection in Albania” (LEAP), the research employs a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods. These include a nationally representative survey of 790 households aged 65 and older, focus group discussions, and interviews with stakeholders from family, institutional, and NGO sectors.
Findings from the study highlight the need for systemic reform to create a sustainable, equitable, and comprehensive LTC network capable of meeting the diverse needs of Albania’s aging population. The research emphasizes the importance of shifting from a model relying predominantly on family care toward a mixed approach that strengthens formal, professional, and community-based care services. This paradigm shift is seen as essential for ensuring that older adults receive consistent, high-quality support while promoting broader social inclusion and protection.
