Majority of Israeli Seniors Feel Neglected and Demand Urgent Government Action Ahead of Elections

A recent survey conducted among Israelis aged 65 and older reveals widespread dissatisfaction and concern among the elderly population just before the upcoming elections. The survey, carried out by the Geocartography Institute for the Matav Association, polled 407 seniors and found that 77% feel overlooked by the government and believe their needs are not adequately addressed. Only about 10% think the elderly receive appropriate attention in national policy.

Economic hardship tops the list of concerns, with 83% demanding an increase in old-age pensions, which currently stand at 1,838 shekels monthly (rising to 1,941 shekels for those over 80). Additionally, 58% expect the next government to tackle the high cost of living, while half want shorter waiting times for medical care. Expanding nursing services and combating loneliness are also significant issues, cited by 51% and 41% of respondents respectively.

Security and emergency preparedness are major worries as well. A striking 85% of seniors believe Israel is unprepared to protect them during war or emergencies, referencing recent conflicts and missile attacks since October 7. Only 15% feel confident in the state's ability to safeguard them.

Matav CEO Lior Strasberg described the findings as a "wake-up call" for policymakers, emphasizing the urgent need for concrete measures to support over a million elderly citizens. He highlighted that the government has identified aging population preparedness as a strategic goal, but gaps remain, as also noted in a recent State Comptroller report. Strasberg urged moving beyond rhetoric to ensure seniors can age with dignity, security, and community support.

The survey underscores the pressing challenges facing Israel’s aging population, including financial insecurity, healthcare access, social isolation, and emergency readiness, all demanding prioritized government attention in the coming term.