Reforms in Long-Term Care Policies in Europe

Over the last two decades, many changes have happened to the social welfare policies of various industrial countries.  Citizens have seen their pensions, unemployment benefits, and general healthcare policies shrink as “belt tightening” measures are enforced.  But in contrast, long-term care has seen a general growth in public financing, an expansion of beneficiaries, and, more generally, an attempt to define larger social responsibilities and related social rights. The aim of this book is to describe and interpret the changes introduced in long-term care policies in Western Europe. The volume argues that recent reforms have brought about an increasing convergence in LTC policies. Most of the new programs have developed a new general approach to long-term care, based on a better integration of social care and health care. The book explores increasing public support given to family care work (in the past, the family would take care of the elderly or infirm) and increasing growth and recognition of a extended social care market (by which care has shifted from a moral obligation based on family reciprocity to a paid, professional activity). A new social care arrangement has therefore been developing in Western countries, based on a new mix of family obligations, market provision, and public support. In order to understand such changes, this analysis will take into account the social and economical impact of these reforms.

From the reviews:“The book provides a comprehensive description of contemporary LTC policies in different countries and regions of Europe, and a systematic exploration of the institutional conditions and socio-economic impacts of the changing LTC policies. … The book’s publication is timely and highly recommended for all those working in the field of LTC, whether they be academics, students or policymakers.” (Ellen Kuhlmann, Social Policy & Administration, Vol. 47 (7), December, 2013)“The purpose is to educate society about the conflict of the social and political aspects of long-term care and the barriers that need to be addressed. These noteworthy objectives need to be strongly considered by long-term care experts. Long-term care practitioners are the intended audience, and the book has compiled much research. … The side-by-side comparisons to other healthcare systems are phenomenal. The helpful glossary and appendixes are true assets. This is a unique book that covers a topic that few others address.” (Katherine L. Aguilar, Doody’s Book Reviews, May, 2013)

Dr. Costanzo Ranci is a full professor in the Department of Economic Sociology, at Milan Polytechnic. Dr. Emmanuele Pavolini is an associate professor in Economic Sociology at the University of Macerata, Italy.