Information and support for relatives

It can be difficult to meet relatives during the end-of-life stage because of the coronavirus. Even funerals might not be able to proceed as planned at present. We have therefore compiled information and recommendations from actors in society.
Updated
Ljus på bord.

Visiting relatives during the end-of-life stage

Contact the nursing home or hospital in question to find out what applies if you are planning a visit. The facility operator is responsible for preventing contagion among residents and staff. Thus, visits may be limited, especially where nursing homes and healthcare facilities are concerned.

Modern technology also makes it possible to see each other via a video link. Investigate whether the home can assist with this.

A final farewell

Regardless of the cause of death, according to the Public Health Agency of Sweden’s recommendations there is nothing to prevent relatives from bidding a final farewell to the deceased. Relatives who wish to bid a final farewell in person will be informed of the procedures in place and whether they need to use personal protective equipment. The risk of being infected by Covid-19 from a deceased person is considered small.

Funeral ceremonies

  • Indoor arrangements without seating: 50 participants.
  • Indoor arrangements with seating: 300 participants. Parties of maximum eight people must be able to keep a distance of at least one metre sideways, forwards and backwards from other parties.
  • Outdoor arrangements without seating: 600 participants.
  • Outdoor arrangements with seating: 3 000 participants. Parties of maximum eight people must be able to keep a distance of at least one metre sideways, forwards and backwards from other parties.
  • Private events in rented premises: 50 people.
  • 20 participants are always allowed on funerals. That is regardless if the rules of a certain distance between parties would otherwise limit the number of people further. 

More information, in Swedish, about funerals at The Church of Sweden ("Svenska kyrkan") and at the Swedish Agency for Support for Faith Communities ("Myndigheten för stöd till trossamfund"). For civil funerals, the Church of Sweden, or in some cases the municipality, assumes responsibility.

Mourning

At 1177 Healthcare Guide you can find tips and advice (in Swedish) on how to deal with your grief when someone has died. You can also contact one of the support lines available (in Swedish) online via chat, email or phone.

No special protective measures for handling household effects

A person who has to deal with the household effects of a deceased person with confirmed Covid-19 does not need to take any protective measures other than normal – use disposable gloves and wash hands with soap and water.

The Survivor’s Guide – practical tips when a relative has died

When a relative has died, you may need to contact a number of different government agencies and other actors. At Efterlevandeguiden.se you can find information about what needs to be done immediately after the death, but also in the following months and years.