Israel Plans 159 Polling Stations in Nursing Homes to Boost Elderly Voting Access

The Israeli government is considering establishing 159 polling stations inside nursing homes for the upcoming 2026 elections to facilitate voting for elderly residents. This initiative follows petitions by senior citizens to the Supreme Court, which recently requested updates from the state on efforts to create accessible voting locations within these facilities. The court has asked for further progress reports before making a ruling on the petitions.

Out of 290 nursing homes contacted by the election committee, 159 were recommended for polling stations based on responses and on-site professional assessments. These homes agreed to conditions such as providing free polling locations and allowing access for voters residing outside the nursing homes. Among these, 127 polling sites have been verified as accessible for voters with mobility limitations. The remaining homes are still undergoing accessibility evaluations and may be approved later.

The final decision to implement these polling stations depends on approval by the Central Elections Committee. If approved, this move could significantly increase voting participation among elderly and mobility-impaired citizens living in nursing homes across Israel.