Implementation of a national aging-in-place reform: a qualitative study exploring facilitators and barriers from the perspectives of employees in six Norwegian municipalities

The study found that despite municipalities' diverse engagement with the reform's focus areas, there is potential for more effective implementation. Municipal employees agreed with the reform's ideas but struggled with its innovative aspects, indicating a need for clearer guidelines through top-down strategies. Facilitators were identified, but barriers such as the COVID-19 pandemic, municipal diversity, and funding issues created challenges. Insufficient leadership and inter-sector collaboration were primary obstacles. These findings are crucial for future reform implementation and service quality improvement.