Services for older people
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health sets the guidelines for developing services for older people, drafts the relevant legislation and guides the implementation of reforms.
Wellbeing services counties provide the health and social services that older people need. Their social security consists of health and social services and income security.
An information package on issues related to the life situation of and public services for older people and their families is available on the Suomi.fi portal.
The Ministry of Social Affairs and Health, together with the Association of Finnish Local and Regional Authorities, has published a quality recommendation that aims to guarantee a good quality of life and effective services for all older persons who need them.
Legislation on services and benefits for older people
Finnish law entitles people to healthcare and social welfare services primarily according to need, not according to the age of the person in particular.
Responsibilities of Valvira and THL regarding services for older people
The National Supervisory Authority for Welfare and Health (Valvira) is the national supervisory authority for social welfare. It guides the Regional State Administrative Agencies to ensure uniform supervision of services for older people and related guidance throughout the country.
The Finnish Institute for Health and Welfare (THL) produces information on services for older people and their functional capacity and prerequisites.