pårørendes

Pårørendes is the possessive plural form of pårørende, a term used in Danish and Norwegian to refer to the group of people who are close to someone who needs care—typically family members, partners, close friends, or other informal caregivers. The term denotes both the relationship and the caregiving responsibilities, and it is commonly used in policy, health care, and social services to describe the network surrounding a patient.

The role of pårørende includes emotional support, practical help with daily activities, assistance with medications and appointments, and communication with health professionals. They may participate in care planning, discharge arrangements, and decision-making, depending on the legal framework and the patient’s wishes. Relieving the patient and coordinating among care providers are common tasks, and the involvement can improve continuity of care, though it requires ongoing cooperation with professionals.

Rights and support: Across Nordic welfare states, policies increasingly recognize the needs and rights of pårørende. Support measures can include information and education, access to respite care, financial or formal support in some cases, and involvement in care planning. Specific provisions vary by country and region, and patient autonomy and consent remain central.

Challenges and considerations: Providing care to a relative can place substantial emotional, physical, and financial strain on pårørende. Caregiver burden and burnout are concerns, underscoring the importance of support networks, workplace accommodations, and accessible social services to mitigate risks.