anhöriga

Anhöriga is a Swedish term used to describe a person’s closest relatives and confidants who are often involved in decisions about a person’s health, care, and welfare. The concept is used in healthcare, social services and elder care to identify those who should be informed about a person's situation and who may participate in planning and decision-making when the person cannot advocate for themselves. Anhöriga are not automatically legal representatives; their rights and responsibilities vary by country, region, and institution, and they are separate from formal guardianship or power of attorney.

The group typically includes immediate family members such as a spouse or registered partner, a cohabiting partner, children, parents, and siblings. Depending on the circumstances, other close relatives or trusted individuals can be designated as anhöriga. In practice, care providers may share information, invite input on treatment or care plans, and involve anhöriga in discussions while respecting patient confidentiality and the patient’s wishes and capacity.

The term reflects a social and ethical emphasis on family and close networks in supporting individuals who require assistance. It also underscores the support role of friends and other non-relatives who are closely connected to the person. Policies and guidelines around anhöriga aim to balance the person’s autonomy with the practical and emotional needs of those who care for them.