Vårdinrättningar

Vårdinrättningar, also known as nursing homes or care homes, are residential facilities that provide long‑term personal care and medical services to individuals who are unable to live independently. The term is primarily used in Sweden, where the Swedish Healthcare Act defines a vårdinrättning as an institution that offers a permanent place of residence and typical assistance with daily living activities such as eating, bathing, dressing, medication, and hygiene. The facilities may also provide rehabilitation, social activities, and in some cases, specialized services for people with dementia or other severe neurological conditions.

The sector traces its roots to the early 20th century, when nursing homes were established as charitable institutions. Since the 1980s the Swedish government introduced regulations that require vårdinrättningar to adhere to national quality and safety standards, monitoring their staff-to-resident ratio, professional qualifications, and care protocols. The Swedish Association of Nursing Homes (Sveriges vårdinrättningar) represents many of the private providers and offers accreditation programs to ensure compliance with best practices.

In 2022, Sweden reported approximately 20,000 residents in nursing homes, a figure that has risen steadily as the population ages. About 80 percent of residents have Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia. The average number of staff per resident is 0.5 during the day, increasing to 1 staff member for every resident at night. Reimbursement for services is mainly through the municipal social welfare funds, with additional contributions from private patients.

Typical services provided include assistance with activities of daily living, 24‑hour medication management, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, and nursing care. Many vårdinrättningar also host family visits and organize social events to reduce isolation. Swedish laws mandate that residents have the right to participate in decisions about their care, and they may move freely between institutions or return home if their condition permits.