JU expert contributes to national guidelines

The national guidelines for dementia care are about to be updated for the first time in several years. The work is being led by the National Board of Health and Welfare and is expected to be completed in mid-2027. Linda Johansson, Dean of Research at the School of Health and Welfare at Jönköping University, is one of the scientific experts participating in the process.

The new guidelines stem from the work done on the national strategy for dementia that were adopted by the government in 2025. The strategy will be in effect until 2028 and provides an overall direction for areas of healthcare and social care that are of particular importance to people with dementia. Linda Johansson provided expert knowledge during a hearing when the foundations for the strategy were being developed.

"The strategy is broad and is about giving direction at a more general level. The guidelines we are working with now are more concrete and are aimed at decision-makers in healthcare and social care. They are intended to provide guidance on priorities and resource allocation," says Linda Johansson.

Coordinated input key to working process

The guidelines are being developed by a working group consisting of expert researchers and representatives from the National Board of Health and Welfare. Input is then provided by other actors and stakeholders as the work continues.

‘The starting point is to identify where the need for guidance is greatest, i.e. in which areas recommendations are most urgent. Background materials are then developed,’ explains Linda.

Meaningful work with major impact

For Linda, the opportunity to participate in this work is both a great responsibility and a valuable opportunity.

‘It's an honorary appointment. I'm learning a lot, not least from the other experts, and I get to compare my own knowledge with theirs. It feels meaningful to contribute to something that will have a major impact on healthcare and social care in Sweden,’ she concludes.