Supporting family carers of older people in Europe

There is no extensive formal care provision or system supporting family carers in Poland. The cohabiting family plays a major role in organizing support for the elderly. Nevertheless, the family carers are not perceived as natural partners for both medical and social services. As a result, caring for the elderly often brings additional costs for the family and restrictions to work and income. This publication presents the legal status and social situation of family carers in Poland, explains the range of services available and the possibilities to use help adapted specially for this group.