Alike but different? Care for children and older people in the Nordic caring states

Guðný Björk Eydal and and Tine Rostgaard

Chapter 26 in Research Handbook on Social Care Policy, 2025, pp 411-430 from Edward Elgar Publishing

Abstract: The Nordic countries have historically prioritized universal and state-based social services, often referred to as the ‘public service model’ or ‘caring states’. Rooted in service universalism, these services aim to be attractive, affordable, and flexible, addressing diverse needs while promoting gender equality and high female labour force participation. This approach ensures stable tax revenues and a sustainable welfare system. However, the model faces challenges in maintaining both the quantity and quality of care. This chapter examines childcare and long-term care policies in Denmark, Iceland, Finland, Norway and Sweden, tracing historical trends and identifying shared institutional features and current challenges. While incremental changes have weakened services, the Nordic countries continue to strive for comprehensive universal care for children and older adults, maintaining their commitment to accessible, high-quality social services despite mounting pressures.

Keywords: Children; Older people; Nordic countries; Care-policies; Nordic models; Gender (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
ISBN: 9781839103681
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