Access to rights through relations: Older home care clients’ experiences in Finland

Anna Mäki-Petäjä-Leinonen; Hanna Ristolainen; Mervi Issakainen; Elisa Tiilikainen

doi:10.35295/osls.iisl.2635

Autores

Anna Mäki-Petäjä-Leinonen University of Eastern Finland https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7142-3498
Hanna Ristolainen University of Eastern Finland https://orcid.org/0000-0002-1721-1010
Mervi Issakainen University of Eastern Finland https://orcid.org/0000-0001-7471-2148
Elisa Tiilikainen University of Eastern Finland https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3947-6036

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.35295/osls.iisl.2635

Palavras-chave:

older adults, home care, access to services, relational rights

Resumo

This study explores how older people receiving home care in Finland access their rights through relations at the micro, meso, and macro levels. Drawing on a mixed-methods design combining survey data and qualitative interviews collected among older adults receiving home care services, it examines how legal entitlements are shaped and mediated by interpersonal, institutional, and societal relationships. While many older adults report adequate care, a notable minority experience unmet needs, limited influence over their care, and social isolation. At the micro level, family members often help older people navigate services, reflecting both expectations of familial support and gaps in formal provision. Those without close ties are particularly vulnerable. At the meso level, encounters with professionals vary, with time pressures and staff shortages limiting opportunities for respectful, person centred interaction. At the macro level, societal views on ageing and available opportunities for participation shape older adults’ sense of belonging. Overall, access to rights in home care is relational, requiring supportive policies, sufficient resources, and everyday practices that foster stable, respectful relationships.

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