Sarah L. Barber, Paul Ong, and Zee A. Han explore the complexities of long-term care (LTC) in ageing populations in their latest contribution to the Handbook of Global Health, published online by Springer on February 5, 2025. This chapter examines the evolving landscape of LTC, highlighting the growing demand for formal care services as traditional reliance on household and community support becomes increasingly unsustainable. With global ageing trends placing pressure on health systems, governments are stepping in to organise and finance LTC, leading to diverse approaches in care provision and funding across different economic and political contexts.
The authors discuss the transition toward universal LTC systems, emphasising the challenges of ensuring equitable access while managing costs. They underscore the enduring role of informal caregivers and community networks in complementing formal services. This chapter provides valuable insights into policy reforms, financing strategies, and sustainable solutions for meeting the LTC needs of ageing populations worldwide.