Age barrier removed: Older adults can now become foster parents in Israel

The Israeli Knesset has given final approval to amendments to the foster care law, removing age restrictions that previously prevented older adults from becoming foster parents. The changes will allow foster parents of any age to provide psychiatric medication to children in their care who require it, marking a significant expansion of the foster care system.

The law had previously limited foster parent eligibility based on age considerations. By removing these restrictions, Israeli authorities hope to expand the pool of potential foster families and provide more stable homes for vulnerable children. The amendment recognises that experienced, values-driven individuals across all age groups can provide nurturing and stable family environments.

Under the new provisions, foster parents will have greater authority in managing their foster children’s medical care, specifically including the ability to administer psychiatric medications when clinically necessary. This change aims to streamline healthcare decisions and reduce bureaucratic barriers that may have previously hindered children’s access to needed mental health treatment.

The move reflects a broader policy shift towards inclusive fostering practices in Israel, prioritising the quality of care and family stability over arbitrary age cutoffs. Officials have framed the changes as an invitation to experienced, values-oriented families throughout the community to participate in what they describe as the important work of providing warm and stable homes for children in need of care.

Source: Ynet — Original article in Hebrew.