Israeli Lawmakers Pledge Cross-Party Action on Aging Population

Hundreds of professionals from Israel's senior living sector convened at the annual conference of Kedem, the Association for Senior Living Communities and Nursing Homes in Israel. The conference, titled "What's Next?", addressed the growing challenge of an aging population and the need for comprehensive preparation across healthcare, welfare, and housing systems.

A central theme was the gap between the projected increase in the elderly population and the state's readiness to meet their needs. A special panel, moderated by Ran Reznik, health correspondent for Yisrael Hayom, featured several Members of Knesset, including Yoni Meshriki, Alon Schuster, Michal Waldiger, Eti Attia, and Yasmin Fridman, alongside Knesset candidate Inbar Yachzekali.

During the panel, Nachi Katz, CEO of Kedem, presented findings from the 2026 Israel Aging Survey. The survey revealed that 60% of the public believes the state is unprepared for the doubling of the 75+ population in the next two decades. Furthermore, 68% feel that the care and quality of life for seniors are largely absent from public and media discourse, while 79% expect political parties to present detailed plans for addressing this challenge.

The survey also highlighted public concerns about aging, with 28% citing loss of independence as their primary fear, followed by cognitive decline (24%) and health deterioration (22%). Among those aged 65 and over, the fear of losing independence rises to 37%. Regarding living arrangements, 59% prefer to stay in their homes, 17% would opt for an adapted apartment, and only 7% prefer assisted living facilities, with the desire to remain at home increasing with age.

Katz emphasized the need for political action, stating, "It's time for the political system to stop remembering senior citizens only on election day." He called for practical solutions to issues like the nursing crisis, labor shortages, and fragmented government responsibility, urging parties to commit to policies enabling dignified aging.

Knesset Health Committee Chairman Yoni Meshriki proposed a collaborative effort among Knesset members in the upcoming term to advance senior care and remove barriers in health, welfare, and housing. All panel participants agreed to work together on this issue, regardless of political differences. Kedem views this consensus as a significant step in elevating the aging issue on the public agenda and fostering cooperation between decision-makers and industry professionals.