palvelutalot

Palvelutalot are a form of housing in Finland designed for older adults and others who need assistance with daily activities. They provide residents with their own apartment or studio within a serviced building, complemented by on-site support services. The arrangement aims to enable independent living while ensuring access to help when needed.

Palvelutalot may be municipally operated, owned by housing companies, or run by private providers. Funding typically comes from resident rent and service charges, with possible municipal contributions for care services. The municipality coordinates social and health services that can include meals, cleaning, laundry, security, and a 24-hour on-call system, as well as access to home care or nursing services as required. The exact service package varies by facility and contract.

Admission is arranged through municipal social services. An assessment determines the level of assistance a resident needs. Palvelutalot are intended for people who can live in their own apartment but require regular services; residents needing continuous 24-hour care are usually placed in more specialized care facilities.

Palvelutalot form part of Finland’s long-term care system and are distinguished from traditional care homes by their emphasis on independent living with attached services rather than full institutional care. Challenges include variations in quality, waiting times, and affordability across municipalities. Ongoing reforms seek to better integrate housing, social, and health care to support aging in place.