Koduhoolduses

Koduhoolduses refers to formal care and support provided to individuals in their own homes to help with daily living, health needs, and safety. In Finland, it is part of the municipal welfare system and is intended to enable people, especially older adults, people with chronic illnesses, and those with disabilities, to live independently at home for as long as possible. The services are typically delivered by trained professionals and may be provided directly by the municipality or through contracted private providers.

The core services commonly included are practical and health-related support. This can cover personal care such as bathing and dressing, assistance with daily activities, medication reminders or administration under supervision, monitoring of chronic conditions, wound care, and rehabilitative activities. Support with meals, shopping, housework, laundry, and transportation to appointments is often provided, as are home safety assessments and minor home modifications. In addition, koduhoolduses may include respite care for informal caregivers and access to telecare or other digital health tools.

Access and planning generally begin with an assessment by social services and health professionals to determine the level of need. A care plan is created and regularly reviewed, usually coordinated by a case manager or a multidisciplinary team, and may involve cooperation with a patient’s general practitioner or specialist care. Availability, scope of services, and wait times can vary by municipality and funding arrangements.

Funding typically comes from public municipal resources, with client co-payments based on income. Private providers may offer additional or supplementary services. The aim of koduhoolduses is to support independent living, improve quality of life, and reduce unnecessary hospital admissions, while ensuring safety, privacy, and dignity for service users.