Riga's care homes have no free spots for dementia patients

A significant number of people in Latvia live with various forms of dementia, a condition that requires constant supervision and specialised care. Many such patients eventually need to move into a dedicated care facility, but Riga's municipal care centres currently have no vacancies available.

Slow-moving waiting lists

People who need a place in a municipal care centre are added to a waiting list, but it moves extremely slowly. As a result, many applicants may never actually reach their turn, since dementia often progresses faster than spaces become available at these institutions.

Co-financing troubles as well

Similar difficulties exist around co-financing for care services, making it harder for families to access the support they need for relatives affected by dementia.

The situation points to a broader strain on Latvia's care system, where demand for places in specialised institutions outpaces available capacity, leaving many families without adequate support for the daily care of their loved ones.