Regional disparities found in financial support for elderly family caregivers in Finland

Financial support for elderly family caregivers varies significantly between Finland’s 22 wellbeing services counties, creating unequal access to assistance depending on location, according to a new audit by the National Audit Office of Finland (VTV).

The report reveals that over 31,000 people aged 65 or older received family caregiver support in 2022. However, eligibility criteria and benefit levels differ across regions, meaning some caregivers receive support while others in identical situations do not. “In one part of Finland, you may qualify for support, while in another, you may not—even if your care needs are the same,” said Olli Karsio, senior auditor at VTV.

The disparities stem from differing interpretations of national legislation by regional authorities, which independently define eligibility rules. For example, the Päijät-Häme region has particularly strict criteria, resulting in fewer recipients relative to its population.

Variations also exist in mandatory respite days for caregivers and compensation amounts, with payments differing based on the recipient’s county of residence. Karsio suggested legislative reforms to standardise minimum support levels, ensuring fairer access nationwide.