In France, the issue of dependency is an increasingly pressing concern as the number of elderly people grows. By the end of 2006, there was a shortage of between 30,000 and 40,000 places for the accommodation and care of the elderly. The shortage of funds, staff, and places is becoming more and more pronounced. What is the situation in Nice and the Alpes-Maritimes?
Out of a population of almost 340,000 in Nice, 29% are over 60 years old (of which 54% are women), which is higher than the national average of 22.6%. To cater to this relatively elderly population, there are 46 accommodation establishments in Nice. With more than 2,000 beds, the Riviera capital is fairly well equipped, with the occupancy rate being lower than 100%. The average age of entry into a retirement home is approximately 87 years, corresponding to a stage of dependency known as GIR* 1, 2, and 3. Seniors remain autonomous for quite a long time.
Coastline vs Hinterland
According to Jean Catalan, head of communications for the Bel-Age retirement homes, “a person looking for a place in a retirement home in Nice does not have difficulties.” The coastline is fairly well equipped with facilities for the elderly, except in terms of social assistance. The average daily price is €65/70, with social assistance covering €57, “so the difference is not significant.”
The situation is more challenging in the hinterland, although it is not critical. What is problematic is isolation. Indeed, a dependent person has children who are about 60 years old. However, these children do not always have the capability to drive and visit their older parents.
A Future Solution
In the future, the solution lies in home care. There are many companies, both large and small, either associative or private, that provide continuous 24-hour presence if necessary, thus delaying entry into a retirement home as much as possible.
In the immediate term, the dependency plan of the General Council does not foresee the opening of new retirement homes in the department. By comparison, the situation is more concerning in the Var or Vaucluse. In a few years, the proportion of elderly people there will be higher.
