An 83-year-old blind man says he 'went dark' after learning his companion service will end. Jens Hviid Sørensen relies on the program for cultural outings and social activities.
The trial scheme provides seven hours of monthly companionship to severely visually impaired seniors over 67. It launched four years ago but expires in March 2026 after being excluded from next year's budget.
"I use it to get out among people," Sørensen explained. Without his companion, he says he cannot safely leave his apartment. "I can't go out anymore. I need an arm."
Approximately 1,000 people use the companion service across Denmark. In a recent satisfaction survey, 92% of respondents said it greatly improved their quality of life.
Diana Stentoft, chair of the Danish Association of the Blind, called the decision "unreasonable discrimination." She noted the program costs about 45 million kroner annually.
"I'm not entirely sure that 45 million is a big expense compared to what society would otherwise pay," Stentoft said, referencing costs associated with senior isolation.
The Social Affairs Minister acknowledged the program's value but said making it permanent would require "political prioritization" within budget constraints.
Parliamentary parties can still allocate funds from other pools until 2028. About 70 million kroner is available for disability initiatives.
If no solution emerges, Sørensen and others will lose their companions within months. The government appears willing to accept the human cost of this budget decision.
"It's a limitation in how I can live my life," Sørensen said. "It's a large group of people who are suddenly being confined to their homes."