Slovenia’s family caregivers support growing numbers at home
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In Slovenia, more than 300,000 people provide care for family members at home, with family caregivers supplying around 80 percent of all care given.
Many family caregiving journeys begin with simple tasks like shopping and accompanying loved ones to doctor’s appointments. Over time, care needs can increase to include help with mobility, personal hygiene, dementia, and incontinence, turning homes into full-time care facilities.
The Institute Anton Trstenjak for Gerontology and Intergenerational Solidarity reports the rising trend of home care within Slovenian families. This shift creates challenges for caregivers, including balancing work and personal life, preventing complications, and finding support. The system of long-term care in Slovenia offers support like caregiver allowances, in-home care, and services to maintain independence, with information available through a helpline at 114. Incontinence is a common issue faced by both those receiving care and their caregivers.
Experts emphasize a three-step approach to skin care, using highly absorbent incontinence products, gentle cleansing, and regular moisturizing, to prevent skin irritation and dermatitis. ABENA, a Danish company, offers a digital tool to help people choose appropriate cleaning and care products based on individual needs, and personal doctors and pharmacists can also provide guidance.
Ultimately, well-organized home care, proper skin protection, and readily available assistance allow caregivers to focus on connection and ensuring a sense of security for their loved ones.
