The dining atmosphere at Byrknes bo- og omsorgssenter in Gulen changed abruptly in March, as the facility ceased providing communal meals. Residents who once gathered in a common room for warm meals and conversation now receive their dinner alone in their individual apartments.
Loss of Social Connection
The transition has sparked strong reactions from both residents and their relatives. Beyond the loss of a shared meal, critics argue that the change has removed essential daily interactions, including the laughter and small talk that served as a primary social outlet for many.
Artist Elisabeth «Bettan» Andreassen has publicly condemned the decision. In a message, she described the situation as “unheard of,” specifically criticizing the staffing levels that led to such a verdict.
Criticism of Staffing and Efficiency
Andreassen expressed confusion over the logic of the change, questioning why serving meals in a communal area would be more time-consuming than visiting each room individually. She warned that extreme pressure on employees could eventually lead to staff resignations.
In a Facebook post, Andreassen questioned if “robots” would soon take over, stressing that social interaction, conversation, and community are vital for the health of the elderly, as well as for the well-being of staff and relatives.
The Municipality’s Defense
Gulen Municipal Director Reidun Halland stated that while the municipality understands the criticism, she has full confidence in the professional assessments made. She noted that decisions were based on capacity, individual resident needs, and the necessity of prioritizing limited resources for those who need health services most.
Halland explained that due to confidentiality, the municipality cannot comment in depth on the specific professional evaluations. However, she asserted that care staff often go beyond their mandated rights to create good days for those receiving home services.
A Broader Trend in Resource Management
According to a statement on the municipality’s website, the change was not intended to remove something pleasant, but to ensure “good and responsible” services. The municipality claims that serving food in individual units allows them to better adapt help to those who require quiet, shielding, or specific assistance during meals.
Director Halland suggested that the situation at Byrknes is not unique. She warned that cases involving tighter prioritization of resource use will likely be seen frequently across Norway in the coming years.
Read the municipality’s full explanation here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were communal meals stopped at Byrknes bo- og omsorgssenter?
The municipality states the change was necessary to ensure “good and responsible” services, as serving meals in individual units allows them to better adapt help to each resident’s specific needs for quiet or shielding, especially while resources are under pressure.
What are the primary concerns raised by critics?
Critics, including artist Elisabeth Andreassen, argue that the decision removes vital social interaction and laughter from the residents’ lives. There are also concerns that insufficient staffing is driving these decisions and creating unsustainable pressure on employees.
Is this change expected to happen elsewhere?
Municipal Director Reidun Halland has indicated that the situation is not unique and that tighter prioritization of resource use is likely to be seen in many parts of Norway in the years to come.
Do you believe the need for individualized care outweighs the benefits of communal social spaces in elderly housing?
