Ombudsman’s Independent Monitoring Mechanism Conducts Monitoring Visit to a Social Service Facility for Older Persons

Within the Ombudsman’s independent monitoring mechanism mandate, and in connection with 1 October - the International Day of Older Persons, a monitoring visit was conducted to a social service facility for older persons of the Social Services Agency under the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection of the Population of Azerbaijan.

During the monitoring visit, both wings of the facility’s administrative building were inspected, including the service and medical rooms, dining hall, and residents’ rooms. The monitoring team assessed the existing conditions, including accommodation, nutrition, and the provision of medical and social services. Representatives of the Ombudsman held individual conversations with residents of the facility to hear their concerns and better understand their needs.

It was determined that renovation works are necessary in certain sections of the facility. In addition, recommendations were made to adapt the nutritional provision to the age and health-related needs of older persons.

The issues identified during the monitoring visit, as well as the implementation of recommendations made during previous monitoring visits, were discussed in detail with the facility’s management. The discussions focused, among other things, on ensuring older persons’ access to social and medical services and further improving their living conditions, with views exchanged on the necessary measures.

Based on the findings of the monitoring visit, the Ombudsman’s representatives provided the facility’s management and staff with relevant recommendations on ensuring more meaningful and effective use of residents’ leisure time, expanding opportunities for psychological rehabilitation and social engagement, and strengthening the protection of the rights of persons with disabilities.