During today’s question hour session at the National Assembly, the Prime Minister said the government doesn’t have plans to open old-age homes. However, he added that the government is open to discussing the idea, especially since many Bhutanese work in similar private facilities abroad and could use that experience to start services in the country.
Bhutan is expected to transition into an ageing society by 2027, with the elderly population projected to nearly double by 2047. In light of this, Kengkhar-Weringla’s MP Dorji Wangmo asked if private old age homes could be set up.
“The responsibility of looking after the elderly population falls on their family and the community. However, it will be difficult to look after all of them. Abroad, there are private facilities to look after the elderly population, and I was pondering if we also need such facilities in the country. Therefore, what are the government’s plans to establish such facilities in the country?”
In response, Prime Minister Tshering Tobgay said that most old-age homes abroad are privately run and not by the government.
He added that many Bhutanese abroad earn well working in these facilities and could use their experience to start similar services in the country.
“Those Bhutanese currently living abroad who are qualified, experienced, and see a business opportunity in this field, if they have the resources and interest to provide similar services in Bhutan, we are open to discussions. However, the government does not have any plans at the moment.”
Moreover, he added that there are two existing old-age homes in the country.
“The one in Wangsisina is His Majesty The King’s initiative, and we have another in Lingmukha Gewog in Punakha, for retired monks, initiated by His Holiness the Je Khenpo.”
According to the National Statistics Bureau, there were 50,715 elderly citizens in 2022. This number is expected to increase to nearly 58,930 in 2027 and 118,650 by 2047.
Meanwhile, the government has set aside Nu 2bn for the implementation of a new social protection system in the 13th Five-Year Plan to enhance social security for senior citizens.
Devika Pradhan
Edited by Sonam Pem
