Many retirees in Portugal live on low pension income and are unaware that they may be entitled to additional support from the State. These benefits, granted by Social Security or Private Social Solidarity Institutions (IPSS), were created to improve the quality of life of the elderly, combat loneliness and support those who are no longer fully autonomous, explains Ekonomista, a website specializing in economics and finance.
Support for the elderly goes far beyond a simple retirement pension and includes financial supplements, home assistance, community centers and health programs. The objective is clear: to ensure that no one is left destitute at a stage in life when support is most needed.
More than a pension: what you can ask for
Among the main financial support available is the Solidarity Supplement for the Elderly (CSI), a monthly amount paid to those who receive low pensions and live with few resources. According to Ekonomista, this supplement can significantly increase a retiree’s monthly income and is accompanied by additional health benefits, such as discounts on medicines, glasses and dental prosthetics.
Another essential support is the social old-age pension, aimed at those who have not paid enough to be entitled to the traditional old-age pension. The difference is that this pension does not depend on the contributory career — access is defined based on the applicant’s income and economic situation.
For dependent pensioners, there is also the Dependency Supplement, cash support that can be accumulated with the pension. The value varies depending on the degree of dependence and corresponds to a percentage of the old-age social pension.
Support that promotes well-being and autonomy
Support is not limited to financial benefits. There are also social and support services that seek to ensure comfort and safety for the elderly.
The Home Support Service, for example, is aimed at people with physical or psychological limitations who live at home. Includes help with meals, personal hygiene, laundry care and basic cleaning of the home. According to Ekonomista, the cost is calculated based on the household’s income, ensuring that those who have less pay less.
Community centers and day centers offer social, cultural and recreational activities, helping to combat isolation. Night centers, in turn, are aimed at those who have autonomy during the day, but seek security and company at night.
Alternative solutions: family care and residential structures
Foster care programs allow elderly people without support to live with families registered with Social Security, who guarantee personalized support and care. This alternative avoids hospitalization and provides a more human and affectionate environment.
Residential structures for the elderly, such as long-term care homes, continue to be an option for those in need of permanent care. These spaces, supervised by the State, ensure conditions of comfort, safety and access to medical services.
How to request this support
According to , requests can be made at Social Security counters, IPSS or Santa Casa da Misericórdia in the area of residence. The address considered will always be that of the beneficiary, and not that of family members accompanying him.
It is also possible to consult all the information about services and institutions available on the Carta Social portal, which brings together active support programs in Portugal.
More support, more dignity
With the aging of the population and the increase in the cost of living, this support plays a fundamental role in guaranteeing dignity and financial security for thousands of elderly people.
More than a supplement to the pension, they represent an investment in the quality of life of those who have worked their entire lives and now need support to continue living in comfort and tranquility.
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