kotihoidossa

Kotihoidossa is a Finnish term referring to home-based care services that are delivered in a person's own home to support independent living. The concept covers a range of health and social services designed for older adults, people with chronic illnesses or disabilities, and others who require assistance but prefer not to move into an institution.

Typically, services include personal and practical assistance, medication management, nursing care, rehabilitation and exercise programs, day-to-day help with meals and housekeeping, home nursing, equipment, and coordination of care. Some individuals may receive short-term rehabilitation after surgery or illness.

In Finland, kotihoito is organized by municipalities as part of social and health care services. People are assessed by social services to determine care needs and eligibility, and a care plan is drawn up. Fees are typically income-based, and the arrangement is intended to be flexible and responsive to changes in health.

Benefits include the possibility to live at home longer, closer to family and familiar surroundings, and potential reductions in hospital visits. Challenges include availability and capacity, regional variation, and caregiver strain. The approach is part of broader trends toward deinstitutionalization and person-centered care.