Denmark faces caregiver shortage amid growing elderly population

Denmark is experiencing a growing elderly population, but the country lacks sufficient caregivers to support them. This concern has been reiterated by various local elderly care leaders, who suggest that family members will need to take on more responsibilities as the care needs of the elderly increase. A recent survey revealed that among the respondents, 33 out of 37 elderly care administrators feel that expectations in elderly care should be lowered over time. They emphasize the necessity of involving relatives more actively in caregiving.

Michael Teit Nielsen from the Elderly Association criticized this approach, describing it as a “gross underestimation” of the role family members are already playing. He highlighted that over a million Danes assist family members in need on a regular basis.

In contrast, Tanja Nielsen from the FOA union insists that caregiving tasks should remain in the hands of trained professionals. While she acknowledges the need for community involvement, she argues that it should not solely rely on family members but can include volunteers.

Critics, including Teit Nielsen, express concern that municipalities have not adequately prepared for the surging demand for elderly care. He contends that expecting family members to act as unaffiliated caregivers for complex tasks, which require specific training, is insufficient and flawed.

Christian Harsløf from the Municipalities’ Association refuted allegations that municipalities have failed to organize adequately for the incoming pressures. He acknowledged the overwhelming demands but stressed the importance of finding collective strategies to manage the situation, which includes exploring various support systems, such as volunteer efforts and possibly foreign labor.