Family and State: Recent Trends in the Care of the Aged in Sweden

Abstract

Drawing upon a variety of research data and national statistics, this paper presents a detailed analysis of the contribution made by family and informal care to the support of elderly Scandinavians. Comparative data from other countries are employed to highlight some similarities with other European, American and Far Eastern societies. Formal help is directed at the childless and those who live alone, but the conclusions draw attention to the dangers of this concentration if it excludes essential support to overburdened carers.