BRIEF SUMMARY The aging population and changing social dynamics in Kosovo are increasing the need for institutional elderly care services. However, according to official Kosovo Agency of Statistics (ASK) data, the state-supported community-based accommodation capacity for "elderly without family care" is extremely limited; as of end of 2018, only 70 elderly individuals could be accommodated in these institutions. When compared to the country's retiree population exceeding 150,000, this low state capacity proves that elderly care is still largely being handled within families, yet confirms an enormous market gap for institutional care. The strong Kosovo diaspora's (expatriates') search for professional, "out-of-pocket" and luxury care centers for their parents makes private sector nursing home investments one of the country's most profitable real estate and social welfare opportunities.
ü According to official data, as of the end of 2018, the number of elderly people without family care living in state-controlled community-based shelters (nursing homes) was only 70 people. Considering that there are more than 150 thousand retired and elderly population (those receiving old age pension) throughout Kosovo, the capacity of 70 people offered by the public is almost like a drop in an ocean. This proves that elderly care is still largely carried out within the household, often under inadequate medical conditions. The lack of infrastructure of the state turns private and modern nursing homes into a mandatory market need rather than a luxury option.
r Elderly care center and nursing home investments are subject to strict legal regulation, unlike classical real estate projects. The facility's suitability for disabled access (physical conditions), social service zoning permits to be obtained from the municipality, Ministry of Health accreditations and legal working documents of the nurses/geriatric specialists to be employed should be carefully examined.