Den demografiska utmaningen: En fallstudie av en landsbygdskommuns strategier för att hantera en åldrande befolkning

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to investigate how an aging population affects rural municipalities’ ability to meet future welfare needs, as well as how place marketing and strategies are used to manage demographic changes. The study is based on a qualitative case study of Herrljunga municipality, where interviews with municipal officials and document analysis form the empirical basis. The results show that the municipality is characterized by a growing elderly population and the outmigration of younger people, which contributes to challenges in welfare and skills supply, particularly within health and social care. The study shows that these demographic changes, combined with limited resources, have an impact on the municipality’s ability to plan long-term. At the same time, increasing welfare places greater demands on strategic planning and a sustainable supply of skills.