Senior Citizens
A community-curated guide by Iranian-Icelandic Community
Pensions and Home Care
State pensions are paid from retirement funds from ages 67–70; the amount depends on years of residency in Iceland and prior income. Most elderly people prefer to live at home and receive municipal support: cleaning, meal preparation, medication management, and bathing. Nursing homes provide 24-hour care for those who cannot live independently.
Health and Mental Wellbeing
Common age-related issues include anxiety, depression, reduced appetite, memory impairment, and dementia. Seasonal affective disorder is common during Iceland's dark winter months. Antibiotics are not prescribed for common cold symptoms in Iceland — rest and mild painkillers are recommended. GPs can prescribe antidepressants and refer to specialists.
Addiction and Support
The minimum age for tobacco is 18; for alcohol, 20. Addiction affects whole families. Support for alcohol/drug dependency: SÁÁ phone 530-7600 (www.saa.is) | AA: www.aa.is. Geðhjálp (Mental Health Association): 570-1700 | www.gedhjalp.is. Píeta (suicide prevention): 552-2218 | www.pieta.is.