Assessment and recommendations

There are good reasons why quality assurance for long-term care is on the policy agenda in many OECD countries. First, users of care services demand more voice and control over their lives. Expectations towards the quality of care of “baby boomers” are higher than those of their parents. Most recipients expect to live in a single room to maintain their privacy or expect care services to reflect their own individual needs and preferences. Quality LTC services can help frail and dependent persons being more autonomous and continue to take part in society, despite their conditions. Maintaining independence, autonomy and privacy have been shown to prevent depression and loss of interest in life.