Ethiopian-Israeli Elderly: Rights, Nursing Homes and Cultural Gaps

Current Picture

Brookdale (2023): 66% of Ethiopian-Israeli elderly cannot communicate adequately with doctors in Hebrew. 58% report severe social isolation. 72% prefer home care (not nursing homes) — but receive fewer hours.

Nursing Care Rights

Anyone with functional limitations is entitled to NII nursing allowance. Apply at BTL (08-6709709). Grades 1-6 determine 9-18 hours/week of home assistance. Family members can be paid as carers.

Tax Benefits

Nursing expenses deductible up to 26,640 ILS/year. 2.5 income-tax credit points for caring for a parent.

Health System Navigation

• BTL special rights days for Ethiopian-Israeli elderly: btl.gov.il
• Tene Briut: 03-5162060
• JDC-Eshel: eshel.org.il

📞 08-6709709 | 03-5162060