Nearly 1,000 people used this service last year, yet fewer than half of social work centres currently offer it, according to data from the Ministry of Labour and Social Policy.
Family-based care allows elderly individuals—especially those who live alone—to stay within their local communities while receiving daily support from trained households that take in one or two beneficiaries.
Experts emphasize that this model ensures a more personal, home-like environment, reduces state expenses, and creates income opportunities for caregivers, particularly women over 50 who are between jobs.
While the service remains unevenly implemented across Serbia, regions like Vojvodina report the highest uptake. Compared with neighbouring countries, Croatia stands out as the most advanced in regulating and expanding this type of elder care, highlighting the potential for Serbia to further develop the model and prevent misuse through clearer legal standards.
