Pleiehjem

Pleiehjem is a term used in some Scandinavian languages to describe a residential facility that provides long-term housing and professional care for individuals who cannot live independently. The core purpose is to offer a safe living environment with access to assistance, healthcare, and support for daily activities, often for older adults, people with chronic illnesses, or those with disabilities.

Typical services at a pleiehjem include private or shared accommodation, meals, help with bathing and dressing, mobility support, medication management, basic nursing, rehabilitation therapies, and social or recreational activities. Some facilities provide 24-hour supervision and on-site medical or nursing care, while others offer varying levels of support tailored to residents’ needs.

Funding and governance vary by country and region. Pleiehjems can be publicly funded, privately funded, or financed through mixed systems. Residents may pay a daily fee or contribute to costs based on income and eligibility for government subsidies. Regulatory oversight generally involves licensing, adherence to care standards, safety requirements, and regular inspections to safeguard resident welfare.

Types of facilities range from nursing homes with around-the-clock professional care to residential or assisted living settings that provide lower levels of medical support. Some institutions specialize in dementia care or palliative care, while others provide general long-term housing with varying care options.

Key considerations for residents and families include rights and autonomy, informed consent, privacy, individualized care plans, and mechanisms to raise concerns or complaints. In recent decades, there has been a shift toward person-centered, homelike models and closer integration with community health and social services.