woonondersteuning

Woonondersteuning refers to a set of services intended to help people live as independently as possible in their own home. It is commonly aimed at older adults, people with a disability, or those recovering from illness or injury, and it focuses on practical help that enables daily life at home.

The scope of woonondersteuning typically includes help with daily activities such as cooking, cleaning, laundry, shopping, and transportation; personal care when needed; support with maintaining a safe and accessible home environment (for example safety checks and minor home adaptations); and activities that promote social participation and contact with others. It can also involve monitoring and safety devices, as well as guidance and coordination of other necessary services.

Providers can include municipal social services, home care organizations, and non-profit or private providers. In many systems, families and informal caregivers are involved and may be supported alongside formal services. Access usually starts with an assessment via the local municipality or social support office (often under a national framework for social care). Depending on the jurisdiction, services may be provided directly or financed through a personal budget (persoonsgebonden budget, Pgb) to procure services from approved providers.

Woonondersteuning aims to prevent or delay relocation to residential care by supporting autonomy and participation in daily life, while also addressing safety and caregiver burden. Its design and funding are typically governed by national or regional social welfare and health policies, with regular reassessment to adapt to changing needs.