Pårørende

Pårørende is a term used in Norwegian and other Scandinavian languages to describe relatives and close others who are involved in the care and daily life of a person who needs support. Pårørende can include family members, partners, friends, or informal caregivers who assist with practical tasks, accompany the person to appointments, coordinate services, and advocate on the person’s behalf. The concept emphasizes both the needs of the person receiving care and the important role played by those close to them in the care process.

In healthcare and social services, pårørende are often consulted in care planning and decision-making, with respect to patient consent and privacy rules. They may participate in discharge planning, help monitor symptoms, and ensure continuity of care at home. Professionals strive to provide information, training, and emotional support to pårørende, and may offer access to respite services, counseling, or carer networks to reduce burden.

Caregiving can place significant physical, emotional, and financial strain on pårørende. Balancing work, family, and caregiving duties can lead to stress, fatigue, and burnout. Formal recognition of their role, access to support services, and clear communication from health and social care providers are important to sustain care and protect both the patient’s and the caregiver’s well-being.

Pårørende are particularly central in long-term or palliative care, dementia care, and home-based services, where ongoing daily support is essential. National and regional programs may offer information hotlines, caregiver training, and financial or respite benefits to help pårørende manage their responsibilities.