Today’s news / New elderly reform for self-determination
- With the agreement, we put people before the system, says Minister for the Elderly Mette Kierkgaard (M) in connection with the government, along with a broad majority of the parties of the Parliament, having adopted a new reform for the elderly. (Archive photo). Photo: Claus Fisker/Ritzau Scanpix

New elderly reform for self-determination

Denmark’s government, supported by a broad majority, has passed an elderly care reform to increase the elderly’s self-determination and trust in caregivers. Authored by various parties including The Denmark Democrats and Green Left, the reform introduces a new law focused on liberating the care sector. An additional allocation of 1 billion kroner is set aside for quality improvements beyond the 2030 plan. The reform will implement holistic care, localized service assessment, and consistent caregiver teams, with an investment of 376 million kroner aimed at reducing staff absenteeism. Oversight of nursing homes will transition towards learning and support rather than compliance. The reform also opens up elderly care to private sector bids. Despite the wide support, Danish People’s Party criticized the agreement for not adequately addressing the construction of new nursing homes.