Abstract
The chapter defines old peoples´ homes as a form of an alternative living for old people and a residential social service according the Act on social services No. 108/2006. It shows the service as necessary in the situation when the health status of the old person gets worse and is connected with the loss of independence, when the family is not able to provide the care.
In the chapter the character of the service is described ephasising access to the health care, as well as its contribution to the the quality of life. Old peoples´ homes as well as homes with special regime for people with dementia are presented as an important part of the system of the long-term health and social care.