HomeAbstract of 9th-socialsciencesconfThe Social Protection of Older Adults in Montenegro: Bridging the Policy-practice Gap

The Social Protection of Older Adults in Montenegro: Bridging the Policy-practice Gap

  • Nov 19, 2025
  • Posted by:
  • Category: Abstract of 9th-socialsciencesconf
No Comments


Abstract Book of the 9th World Conference on Research in Social Sciences

Year: 2025

[PDF]

The Social Protection of Older Adults in Montenegro: Bridging the Policy-practice Gap

Milica Marđokić Sekulović

ABSTRACT:

Montenegro, like many European countries, is facing accelerated demographic aging, which leads to an increase in the share of the elderly population. This trend represents a significant challenge to the sustainability and affordability of existing elderycare systems. The paper investigates how institutional policies in Montenegro affect the availability and inclusiveness of services for the elderly in local communities. Anchored in the theoretical framework of social investment theory and the concept of active ageing, the study views ageing as an opportunity for long-term human capital development and intergenerational solidarity. A combination of qualitative and quantitative methods was employed in the research. This included focus groups with older adults who are not users of elderly care services and are not placed in residential institutions. In-depth interviews were conducted with key stakeholders such as policymakers from relevant ministries, directors of social welfare institutions, and licensed service providers working with the elderly. Additionally, a comprehensive analysis of relevant policy documents and demographic data was undertaken to support the findings. The research focuses on the gap between institutional frameworks and the actual experiences of the elderly, particularly regarding access to services in the community. The aim of the paper is to identify the shortcomings in access to social services, and to offer a model of inclusive care for the elderly. In relation to the knowledge gained during the procedure, a proposal for a model of local services based on the principle of deinstitutionalization was formulated, which is the contribution of this work to public policy.

Keywords: Community-Based Care, Deinstitutionalization, Demographic Ageing, Policy Implementation Gap, Social Services