Two day centres for the elderly will be opened in Vittoriosa and Balzan to provide them with care and shelter within their own community.

The Government expects the provision of these services to prolong the stay of the elderly in the community, relieving the demand on long-term care beds.

In July, Health Minister Godfrey Farrugia had said 1,487 senior citizens, cared for by 78 staff members, attended the 21 day centres in Malta and Gozo.

Those who employ live-in carers (including disabled people) will be exempt from paying their share of the social security contribution as employers: €210,000 has been allocated for this measure.

The Home Help Service Scheme will also be extended. Assistance is currently provided to more than 3,700 beneficiaries with 209 pending applications for the service.

A call will be issued for prospective bidders to provide the service.

The €300 grant to the elderly will be extended to cover senior citizens over 75

In the meantime, the Government has issued an expression of interest for the provision of more beds in homes for the elderly.

The St Francis wards 3 and 4 in St Vincent de Paul Residence for the elderly will be refurbished due to a cash-injection of €400,000.

These two wards were last updated in 1992 and can accommodate up to 73 residents.

As a result of talks with the Gozo Curia, St Joseph Home will also be restructured and expanded, creating facilities and recreation opportunities for the elderly. The home will have 70 rooms and 140 beds.

Another Budget measure will see the €300 grant for the elderly extended to cover senior citizens over 75.