Madeira Creates Statute for the Elderly to Strengthen Rights and Support

The Legislative Assembly of Madeira approved Regional Legislative Decree No. 14/2026/M, of August 5, which creates the Statute for the Elderly in the Autonomous Region of Madeira. This legislation complements national law, adapting it to the demographic, social, and territorial specificities of the region.

The Statute applies to all persons aged 65 or over residing in Madeira and establishes a comprehensive set of principles, rights, and protective measures. The document is structured into five main chapters:

• Fundamental Rights: Includes the right to dignity, integrity, autonomy, freedom of decision, and protection against violence, neglect, and abandonment.
• Social Protection, Health, and Home Support: Defines policies to promote health, access to care, continuity of palliative care, and the reinforcement of home support and telecare, with special attention to combating isolation.
• Housing and Mobility: Establishes the right to decent and adapted housing, promoting aging in place. It also defines the right to special mobility conditions, accessible transport, and the removal of physical and communication barriers.
• Social Participation and Digital Inclusion: Promotes the fight against isolation and social exclusion through community programs, senior volunteering, cultural and intergenerational activities. It also includes measures to foster digital literacy and inclusion for the elderly.
• Regional Plan: Determines that the Regional Government will approve a Regional Plan for Active and Healthy Aging, which will serve as an instrument for planning and implementing public policies in this area.

The Statute enters into force the day after its publication and provides for the approval of additional regulations for its implementation.