EHPADs (Établissements d'Hébergement pour Personnes Âgées Dépendantes) are specialized French facilities providing comprehensive care for dependent elderly individuals. Available as public, associative, or private structures, all EHPADs require prefectural approval and agreements with the Departmental Council and Regional Health Agency (ARS). Learn how they operate and who qualifies for admission.
EHPADs welcome dependent seniors—alone or as couples—for full-time, part-time, permanent, or temporary stays. Most house 50 to 120 residents, though smaller facilities exist. They deliver personalized medical and paramedical care, plus daily living support. Multidisciplinary teams include doctors, nurses, caregivers, psychologists, and social workers. Each EHPAD tailors its resident care plans and service organization; many specialize in Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, or other neurodegenerative conditions.
From day one, a customized support plan is created with the resident and family. Private rooms feature bathrooms, TV, and phone access, with full maintenance and cleaning provided. Three daily meals, bed linens, and towels are supplied. EHPADs also organize engaging activities, both onsite and outings, to enhance quality of life.
Applicants must be 60+ (some departments allow exceptions) and show dependency in essential daily activities. Submit a single national application file—available online—to preferred EHPADs, which places you on waiting lists. Apply to multiple via the ViaTrajectoire platform and compare options, including pricing, in the official directory.
When a spot opens, the director contacts you and decides after consulting the coordinating physician. Public EHPADs are more affordable but have longer waits; private ones fill faster yet cost more. Financial aid like housing allowances or APL (personalized housing assistance) may apply, based on means testing.
Upon entry, sign a residence contract or individualized care agreement detailing services and fees. You'll also receive a welcome booklet outlining your rights, freedoms, and house rules.
