A Helping Hand: Serviced Apartments for Seniors in Slovenia

NextGenerationEU, the EU’s ambitious stimulus package is helping to enhance social and territorial cohesion, as well as social and institutional resilience, by investing in countless projects across Europe. In Velenje, Slovenia, an investment of €950,000 has been devoted to the construction of serviced apartments for senior citizens, offering residents first-rate facilities, independent living and a better quality of life. 

Completed by the Velenje municipality in September 2023, the Žarova serviced apartment complex was co-financed through NextGenerationEU, with EU funding assisting in the development of 12 modern residential units that emphasise autonomy, safety and proximity with the local community and nearby family members. To learn more about it, we spoke with residents Ivo Terzić Pavić, Fani Pašić and Marija Vegan. 

Why did you apply to live in the Žarova serviced apartments? 

ITP: I settled in Velenje as a young man, and my children and family still live here. I had no intention of moving per se, but the third-floor flat I occupied beforehand lacked a lift and climbing the stairs was becoming increasingly difficult. The Žarova complex has a lift, and for me, that was ideal. 

FP: It was a similar story for me. Before moving to the Žarova apartments, I lived on the fourth floor of a block of flats, with no lift. I had health problems, so I knew I needed better facilities. The serviced apartments here offered me a safer, better equipped environment.  

MV: For me, I used to live in a house, and I was beginning to feel isolated. Here, I feel much safer. We have an SOS phone for emergencies and there are neighbours and friends all around, which gives me peace of mind. I think local authorities and the EU are right to focus on initiatives like these, as they offer older residents a sense of security. 

“I think local authorities and the EU are right to focus on initiatives like these, as they offer older residents a sense of security.” 

– Marija Vegan, Žarova Resident 

What is your favourite aspect of life in the Žarova complex? 

ITP: Life feels safer and easier now, I am grateful to be able to live here. The best thing is that the building has facilities for people my age, but we can still live independently. I can go to the local shops on my own, for example. The project is a great example of how public monies can be used for the benefit of citizens my age. 

FP: Remaining close to my family is the best part for me. I'm still in a familiar environment, but now I have what I need. The building also has a common room where we can socialise. I'd encourage others to live in serviced apartments as well. 

MV: I agree. Being close to family is fantastic. I can stay close to my children and grandchildren, and we can offer suggestions. Social workers visit once a month and check if we need anything. They also provide a direct link with the local Home for Adult Care, where we can also have lunch and attend classes. 

“The project is a great example of how public monies can be used for the benefit of citizens my age.” 

– Ivo Terzić Pavić, Žarova Resident 

Do you think projects like this will lead to positive change for the community? 

ITP: I think they already have. Since this apartment complex was completed, a similar project has been constructed nearby. It would be nice if more serviced apartments became available in the area, as this would give others the opportunity to live in a beautiful and safe environment like this. 

FP: I certainly hope so. Staying in your own community, near your family, is so important as you grow older. I would like to see similar projects undertaken. 

MV: I share this feeling. I think it is great that the municipality is catering for older people in our community and trying to maintain our quality of life.  

The Žarova serviced apartment complex is among many examples of projects co-funded with the help of NextGenerationEU funding in Slovenia. It demonstrates local and national authorities’ will and commitment to providing innovative, socially conscious care for citizens as they grow older, with the goal of building a more inclusive future. Thanks, in part, to NextGenerationEU funds, such innovations in social care continue to see the light of day.