[Jangseong=Asia Economy Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Jo Hangyu] Jangseong-gun, Jeollanam-do, will expand its elderly welfare policies starting from the new year.
This year, Jangseong-gun's elderly welfare budget is 56.5 billion KRW, accounting for 47% of the total welfare sector budget. The representative elderly welfare policy, the ‘Hyodogwon’ (Filial Piety Voucher), provides 45,000 KRW per quarter, totaling 180,000 KRW annually. It can be used like cash for bathing and hairdressing services, greatly helping to improve the quality of life for residents aged 65 and older.
In accordance with the 8th term of the local government’s election pledges, Jangseong-gun plans to significantly increase the amount of the Hyodogwon. After consultations with the Ministry of Health and Welfare, the individual payment amount will be raised to 300,000 KRW annually, and the scope of usage will be expanded to include purchases of health products.
The senior job program will see participation increase by 13.9% from the previous year, with 1,825 people involved. The county plans to further expand both the number of working days and the allowance through discussions with the Ministry of Health and Welfare. The current monthly 10 days and 270,000 KRW will be increased to 16 days and 450,000 KRW, ensuring stable income activities for elderly residents.
Support for senior centers will also be expanded. Along with continuing existing support such as operating expenses, home appliances, and facility renovations, this year, electrical safety inspections and repairs will be conducted for 340 registered senior centers for the first time. Additionally, ceramic health heating mats will be pilot-supported at 67 locations to help seniors spend a warm winter.
The unit price for the senior meal service, a free meal facility within the senior center, and side dish delivery support will be increased to provide higher quality meals to vulnerable elderly individuals.
The basic pension eligibility has also been expanded by 4.7%. The recognized income amount, considering income, assets, and inflation rate, must be 2.02 million KRW or less for single households and 3.232 million KRW or less for couples. The pension amount is 321,950 KRW for single households and up to 515,120 KRW for couples.
For inquiries regarding other changed elderly welfare policies, please contact the Family Happiness Division of Jangseong-gun Office.
Governor Kim Hanjong stated, “We will make every effort to expand the Hyodogwon and senior job programs supporting the happy retirement of our elders within the first half of this year,” adding, “We will continuously discover and promote projects that support a vibrant and healthy old age, and a comfortable and warm life.”
Jangseong=Honam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Jo Hangyu bless4ya@asiae.co.kr
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