The closure of Kivijärvi's only nursing home poses a significant challenge for elderly residents and their families, as highlighted by the concerns of 90-year-old Anni Vitikainen. The Finnish deputy ombudsman, Maija Sakslin, emphasizes the right of the elderly to reside in facilities that allow family visits. Recent issues in elderly care, particularly in the Pirkanmaa and Varsinais-Suomi welfare regions, have revealed illegal practices, including unlawful waiting times for nursing home placements.

Sakslin's observations reflect a broader problem within the welfare areas, where elderly individuals are offered placements far from their families, complicating visitations and support networks. This practice leads to complaints about the locations of nursing homes even when welfare regions know that proximity to family is crucial for the well-being of elderly residents. The ongoing discussions in the legal and care systems underline the critical need for compliance with the rights of the elderly in Finland, especially as more facilities face closures or restructuring.

The situation highlights the importance of accessible elderly care services within communities to ensure that seniors can receive the necessary support without extended travel distances from their homes and families. With the growing elderly population, finding solutions to accommodate their needs while safeguarding their rights remains a pressing issue that requires urgent attention from government officials and welfare authorities in Finland.