In Finland, the plight of the elderly continues to be a pressing concern, as highlighted by Maija Sakslin, the Deputy Ombudsman. Drawing from the words of the poet Kaarlo Kramsu, Sakslin asserts that the current state of elder care in Finland demands attention and action, especially as she has witnessed a barrage of complaints regarding the adequacy and availability of elder care services. The core of the complaints revolves around whether elderly individuals receive the necessary assistance and services that honor their dignity and well-being.

Sakslin has been a staunch advocate for the elderly, recently speaking out against significant cuts in care services that do not consider the actual needs of the elderly population. She points out that when cost-cutting measures are prioritized over the needs of vulnerable individuals, it can lead to dire consequences, including reported deaths in care facilities over the past winter. These tragic events highlight systemic failings in the elder care system, calling into question the commitment of society to uphold the dignity of its aging population.

Continuing her advocacy, Sakslin underscores the importance of ensuring that elderly individuals receive the services they need, emphasizing that their valued place in society must be restored. This situation not only raises ethical concerns but also challenges the foundational principles of a welfare state, wherein all individuals are entitled to proper care and respect, especially those who are most vulnerable. The ongoing debates in Finnish society about elder care reflect a broader issue about the treatment of aging citizens and the moral obligations to protect their rights and dignity.