Elderly care administrator

What does an Older Care Case Officer do? – Tasks and Work Environment

An Older Care Case Officer mainly investigates, assesses, and decides on services according to the Social Services Act for elderly individuals who need support and assistance in daily life. Tasks often involve contact with clients, relatives, and various care providers, with each case requiring individual assessment and documentation. The role also involves collaborating with other professionals within health and social care, such as nurses and social workers, to ensure clients' needs are met in the best possible way. The work is mainly office-based but often includes home visits and on-site meetings, requiring flexibility and good communication skills.

Salary development over time

The salary for Older Care Case Officers has shown stable and positive growth in recent years. In 2022, the average salary was 33,200 SEK per month, which increased to 34 800 SEK in 2023. In 2024, the average salary is 36 100 SEK, representing an approximate increase of 8.7% over three years. This development reflects an increased demand for qualified personnel in elderly care, as well as general salary pressure within the public sector. Salaries are also influenced by education level, experience, and the geographic location of the employer. Despite the increase, salary variation remains relatively even, and gender differences are small, although women still earn slightly less than men.

Older Care Case Officer salary – comprehensive overview

• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Lowest salary: 31,800 SEK (female, government sector)
• Highest salary: 41,500 SEK (female, municipal sector, research education)
• Hourly wage (average): 217 SEK
• Women: 35 900 SEK (98% of men's salary)
• Men: 36 500 SEK
• Regional differences: Salary levels may vary depending on municipality and county, mainly based on local agreements and demand.

Education and qualifications

To work as an Older Care Case Officer, a university degree in social work is usually required, often with a focus on the social work program. In addition to formal education, experience from social services, elderly care, or similar fields is valued. Supplementary courses and certifications can be advantageous depending on the employer and specialization.

• Social work degree: 3.5 years at university
• Specialized courses: For example, in elderly care or authority practice
• Practical training: Often included in the education and provides valuable work experience
• Prerequisites: Eligibility for university studies (often social science high school program)
• Certificates/continuing education: Can be advantageous, e.g., in dementia or social law

Common benefits and compensations

Among Older Care Case Officers, collective agreements that provide security regarding pension, insurance, and vacation are common. Many employers also offer wellness allowances, flexible hours, professional development, and opportunities for remote work when needed. Some municipalities also provide benefits such as subsidized lunches, extra vacation days, and support for further education.

Competition and challenges

The job market for Older Care Case Officers is characterized by balance, where supply and demand are relatively evenly distributed. According to the Employment Service's forecasts, opportunities are moderate, with demand expected to remain unchanged over the next five years. Challenges in the profession often include high workload, complex cases, and the need for quick decision-making. The role also requires handling ethical dilemmas and sometimes conflicting interests between clients, relatives, and organizational guidelines. Changes in legislation and demographic trends can quickly impact working conditions and the need for new skills.

Tips for aspiring Older Care Case Officers

To succeed as an Older Care Case Officer, it is good to be both organized and empathetic, as the work involves many cases and meetings with people in various life situations. Strong communication skills facilitate collaboration with colleagues and clients, while the ability to make decisions based on legislation and facts is crucial. Patience and a solution-oriented attitude help when cases become complex or sensitive. It is also wise to gain experience in social work early on, for example through internships or summer jobs in healthcare and social services. Continuing education and staying updated on changes in laws and guidelines are other keys to success. Finally, managing stress and prioritizing tasks are important to maintain well-being in the role.

Key facts about Older Care Case Officers

• Educational requirement: Social work degree (3.5 years)
• Work environment: Office-based with home visits
• Average salary: 36 100 SEK/month
• Demand: Moderate according to the Employment Service
• Number of job openings: 237 nationwide

Career paths and future prospects

After three to five years as an Older Care Case Officer, there are opportunities to move into more specialized roles, such as service developer, team leader, or manager within social services. Some choose to deepen their expertise in areas like dementia, disabilities, or legal aspects related to social care. According to the Employment Service's forecast, the job market is stable with moderate opportunities and expected demand to remain unchanged over the next five years. Development opportunities are good for those interested in further education and leadership, as well as for those wanting to contribute to the development of elderly care at local or national levels.

Frequently asked questions about Older Care Case Officers

• What does an Older Care Case Officer earn?
  - The average salary is 36 100 SEK per month, with a salary range between 31,800 and 41,500 SEK depending on experience, education, and employer.
• What are the gender differences within the profession?
  - Women earn an average of 35 900 SEK and men 36 500 SEK, which means women earn about 98% of men's salaries.
• What education is required to become an Older Care Case Officer?
  - A social work degree (3.5 years) is most common, often supplemented with courses in elderly care and practical training.
• Are there many job openings for Older Care Case Officers?
  - There are approximately 237 job openings nationally according to the latest data.
• What are the future prospects for the profession?
  - The Employment Service assesses the opportunities as moderate and expects demand to remain unchanged over the next five years.
• Who are the most common employers?
  - Municipalities are the largest employers, but government agencies and private care providers are also present.
• What is the work environment like?
  - The work is primarily office-based but often includes home visits and meetings with clients and partners.