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Comparative study on informal caregiver support policies in the long-term care system for older adults among South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Sweden

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This study analyses how care regimes in South Korea, the United Kingdom, and Sweden shape the roles of and support policies for informal caregivers within long-term care systems for older adults. South Korea considers informal caregivers both as resources and co-clients, but its well-being support is limited, financial aid criteria are relatively strict, and while employment-care reconciliation policies exist, familistic culture hinders their use. The United Kingdom assigns co-worker and co-client roles, offering well-being support, broader financial aid, and expanding employment-care reconciliation. Sweden prioritises formal care and recognises informal caregivers as co-clients, placing the strongest emphasis on improving their well-being while strictly regulating financial aid and employment-care reconciliation. Despite differences, all three countries emphasise informal caregiver well-being and have established frameworks for financial support and employment-care reconciliation policies. Future policies should enhance quality control, regulate financial aid, strengthen employment-care reconciliation support, and expand formal care, while addressing the potential negative impacts of dual caregiver roles.

Source: Journal of International and Comparative Social Policy

DOI: 10.1017/ics.2025.10057

Authors: Hyeji Kim, Sung Hyun Ko, Sanghee Park

Institutions: Chung-Ang University, National Health Insurance Service

Language: English

Topic: Intergenerational Family Dynamics and Caregiving

Subfield: Sociology and Political Science

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being, Decent work and economic growth

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $3,450