NordenBladet – In all the Nordic countries, people with a reduced workability due to physical and/or mental disability may be entitled to a disability benefit. The rules for entitlement in the disability pension schemes differ across the Nordic countries as do the size and type of pension available.

Disability pension in the Nordic countries
The disability pension schemes in the Nordic countries makes it possible for people with reduced workability to have a permanent income. This part of the social protection policies in the Nordic countries typically target the adult population from 18 years of age. People who receive disability pension in the Nordic countries will often continue to do so until they reach the age for receiving old age pension.

There are various reasons for applying for a disability pension, and the disability schemes in the Nordic countries demonstrate differences in how people with disabilities are supported. In most cases, the workability is assessed as part of the application process. In some of the Nordic countries, the amount of disability pension receivable is set according to the residual workability.

Additionally, the length of residence, activity in the labour market, and citizenship are considered relevant when determining entitlement to disability pension in the Nordic countries.

Overview of national disability pension structures
All Nordic countries have different structures on the disability pension schemes. In the document below you will find a table with a list of comparisons of key features on this part of the social protection policies in the Nordic countries.

The table cover rules from the year 2022 on the foundations for granting disability pension and supplementary pensions.

View: Disability pension structures, 2022

Overview of national rules applying to disability pension in Nordic countries
The Nordic countries have different names applying to this type of social protection. The names indicate how the country help and support recipients. Following this the rules and regulations are different across the Nordic countries. In the document below you will find a table with a list of comparisons of key features on this part of the social protection policies in the Nordic countries.

The table cover rules from the year 2022 on i.e., relevant age group, level of workability, size of pensions and pension indexation. Variations within each country is listed in footnotes.

View: Rules applying to basic pension/disability pension, 2022

Denmark
The disability pension (Førtidspension) may be granted to any person aged whose age is above 18 and below the retirement age, whose workability is permanently reduced to the extent that they are unable to support themselves.

However, people under the age of 40 have restricted access to the disability pension system. Instead, they are required to participate in a resource clarification process, which consists of holistically oriented activities intended to develop their workability. In cases where it is evident that the individual in question cannot return to work, the local authorities may still award a disability pension.

Faroe Islands
The disability pension (Fyritíðarpensjón) is divided into three different levels according to the pensioner’s ability to work. Highest level is awarded pensioners with no work ability. The pension consists of a basic amount, a supplement, and a disability benefit. The basic amount and disability benefit is tax-free. Furthermore, disability pensioners are subject to tax-reduction.

The disability pension is adjusted in relation to pensioner’s own income from work and pension funds.

Finland
The disability pension (Työkyvyttömyyseläke) in earning-related pension system consists of the pension accrued during the work history and a projected pension component that is calculated from the beginning of the year of the pension contingency to the age group’s retirement age. As a rule, the projected pension component is determined based the average earnings for five years before disability pension. Disability pension grated to a person for a limited period is called rehabilitation benefit. Disability pension may be granted in full or partial depending on the remaining workability.

If a person has no working history or it is short, he receives disability pension from the national pension system.

Iceland
The disability pension (örorkulífeyrir and tekjutrygging) consists of a basic amount and an age-dependent benefit addition. The age-dependent benefit is an addition to the disability benefit and is gradually reduced the older the pensioners are when they are granted disability benefit. People aged 24 or younger when they are granted a disability pension receive 100 per cent of the amount of the basic pension, and people who are aged 61 to 66 when they are granted disability benefit receive 2.5 per cent of the amount of basic pension. Disability pensioners who live alone in a flat may also be granted special benefit called “heimilisuppbót”. A special benefit can be made available to those with little or none other income.

Norway
Disability benefit (Arbeidsavklaringspenger, AAP) can be granted to persons whose income is permanently reduced by at least 50 per cent due to permanent illness, injury, or deformity. The medical condition must be the main cause of the inability or reduction of the workability. The disability benefit is calculated based on the average pensionable income of the best three of the previous five years before the onset of disability. Income exceeding 6 times the basic amount (Grunnbeløpet) is not considered. The disability benefit rate per year is 66 per cent of the calculation basis. Persons with low or no previous income are given a yearly minimum.

The recipient of a full disability benefit may have an annual income from work of up to 40 per cent of the basic amount without any reduction of the benefit. A recipient of a graded disability benefit may have an income from work up to 40 per cent of the basic amount in addition to the income corresponding to her/his remaining capacity, without any reduction of the benefit. With higher income, the benefit will be reduced by a portion of the exceeding income. The degree of disability is not recalculated. Disability benefit is subject to taxation.

Sweden
The sickness compensation and activity compensation (Sjukersättning and Aktivitetsersättning) provide financial security in the event of a long-term reduction in workability. People aged 19–65 may receive the sickness compensation if their workability is permanently reduced due to chronic illness or disability. Activity compensation is awarded to people aged 19–29 whose workability has been reduced, due to illness or disability, by at least one quarter for at least one year. This benefit is always temporary.

Activity compensation and sickness compensation can be paid as full, three-quarter, half or one-quarter benefits. Activity compensation due to extended schooling is always paid as a full benefit. There is an income-related benefit and a guaranteed benefit. The income related benefit is linked to income from work. Guarantee benefit is available to people with little or no previous work income.

Featured image: Unsplash

NordenBladet – When it comes to feeling good, many people tend to focus on their appearance. While there are many aspects of our physical appearance that we can control, one area that is often overlooked is the scalp and hair. Believe it or not, feeling good can actually start with a clean scalp and hair. If you want to improve your overall well-being, you may want to consider trying Elisheva & Shoshana’s Aloe Vera+ Deep Cleansing Detox Scalp Treatment Shampoo.

A clean scalp can make a big difference in how you feel. When your scalp is clean and healthy, your hair looks and feels better. This can boost your confidence and help you feel more comfortable in your own skin. Additionally, a clean scalp can help prevent problems like dandruff, itchiness, and oily hair.

Elisheva & Shoshana’s Aloe Vera+ Deep Cleansing Detox Scalp Treatment Shampoo is specifically designed to clean and detoxify your scalp. This unique formula is enriched with aloe vera, which has been used for centuries to soothe and moisturize the skin. Aloe vera is known for its antibacterial and antifungal properties, which can help keep your scalp healthy and free from irritation.

ElishevaShoshana.com – Scandinavian quality. We post worldwide

E&S “Deep cleansing Detox scalp care shampoo with Aloe” helps keep the scalp clean longer and renders the hair strong, shiny and healthy! It contains more than 75% 100%organic components and the product can be used by all age groups, incl. children, pregnant and breastfeeding women.

Featured image: Feeling good starts with a clean scalp and hair – improve your overall well-being with Elisheva & Shoshana’s detox shampoo! (Unsplash)

NordenBladet – A good person is someone who consistently demonstrates qualities such as kindness, honesty, responsibility, empathy, fairness, selflessness, compassion, positivity, and a desire to make the world a better place. Being a good person is not a one-time achievement but rather a lifelong journey. It requires introspection, self-awareness, and a willingness to change. To help you determine if you are a good person, it is important to ask yourself some key questions that can shed light on your character, values, and actions.

10 questions to ask yourself: AM I A GOOD PERSON?

Do I treat others with respect and kindness?
The way you treat others speaks volumes about your character. If you are respectful and kind to those around you, it shows that you value and care about their well-being. This can build strong relationships and create a positive impact on the world.

Am I honest and trustworthy?
Honesty and trustworthiness are fundamental characteristics of a good person. Being truthful and dependable helps build strong relationships and is crucial for maintaining a sense of integrity.

Do I take responsibility for my actions and mistakes?
Taking responsibility for your actions and mistakes demonstrates maturity and accountability. It shows that you are willing to admit when you are wrong and work to make things right.

Do I listen to and understand others’ perspectives?
Listening to and understanding others’ perspectives is an essential aspect of being a good person. It helps to build empathy and understanding, and can lead to more harmonious relationships.

Do I help others in need?
Helping others in need is a key aspect of being a good person. It demonstrates compassion and a selfless spirit, and can make a positive impact on the world.

Am I selfless or selfish?
Your actions and decisions can reflect whether you are selfless or selfish. A good person strives to put others first and prioritize the well-being of others over their own desires.

Do I practice empathy and compassion?
Empathy and compassion are crucial for building strong relationships and being a good person. Understanding the experiences and emotions of others allows you to treat them with kindness and respect.

Am I fair and just in my dealings with others?
Being fair and just in your dealings with others is essential for maintaining strong relationships and being a good person. It shows that you value equality and respect for others.

Do I work towards making the world a better place?
Working towards making the world a better place reflects a selfless and compassionate spirit. A good person strives to leave the world a better place than they found it.

Do I strive to be a positive influence on those around me?
Staying a positive influence on those around you demonstrates a desire to be a good person. Whether it’s through spreading kindness and positivity, or being a role model for others, a positive influence can have a lasting impact on the world.

Answering these 10 questions can provide you with a deeper understanding of yourself and your values. It is not about being perfect, but rather recognizing areas where you can improve and making a conscious effort to be a better person. Remember, self-reflection is a continuous process, and being a good person is an ongoing journey. By continually asking yourself these questions, you can remain on the path of growth and development, both as a person and as a member of society.

Featured image: Pexels