New nursing home construction progresses in Höfn, Iceland after two-decade wait

A long-awaited new nursing home in Höfn, Iceland, is finally taking shape, ending a two-decade wait for residents. The necessity for improved facilities for the elderly, who have endured cramped living conditions and even shared rooms with strangers, is stark.

Construction on the new building adjacent to the existing Skjólgarð nursing home began with a ceremonial groundbreaking in September 2022, after significant delays. The expansion will feature 20 new private rooms, in addition to 10 rooms being refurbished in the older structure. The move from shared accommodations to private rooms, each with its own bathroom, is expected to greatly enhance the quality of life for residents.

Matthildur Ásmundardóttir, the director of Skjólgarð, emphasized that the changes will eliminate all shared living arrangements, which pose challenges for infection control. Currently, there are only two single rooms available.

The project is largely funded by the government, with the local municipality contributing nearly a quarter of the costs. Considerable investment is also being made in creating a safe environment, with the building designed to include a communal garden.

Although construction has faced some delays, it is anticipated that the new facilities will be operational in the first half of next year, after which attention will turn to renovating the older sections of Skjólgarð. The improved environment will allow residents to enjoy outdoor spaces with views of the surrounding glaciers and mountains.