Anna Heins
Care and health manager

Where can I find good advice quickly in an emergency?

"The portal www.pflege.de offers independent and free telephone advice for families and can put you in touch with suitable institutions and providers on request. Families are also entitled to advice from their care insurance provider."

Who is considered to be in need of care by law?

"Anyone who is dependent on help for at least six months due to a physical, mental or psychological illness or disability. The four areas of nutrition, mobility, personal hygiene and domestic care are decisive here."

Need for care - how is it determined?

"Affected persons or their authorized representatives submit an application for benefits to the care insurance fund. The Medical Service of the health insurance company then announces its visit for an on-site assessment. It analyzes the need for assistance and prepares an expert opinion on the basis of which the care insurance fund decides whether to recognize or reject a care level."

What benefits are those affected entitled to?

"That depends on the care level and the respective form of care, i.e. whether the person concerned is cared for at home by relatives or by an outpatient care service, whether they require partial inpatient or full inpatient care. Tables providing an overview can be found on the portal "www.pflege.de"

What costs should families expect?

"The benefits from the care insurance fund can be sufficient for home care provided by family and friends. However, the greater the need for care, the more likely it is that additional private payments will be required. Families should expect to pay around €1,500 per month for inpatient care."

What are the advantages and disadvantages of care at home?

"The biggest advantage is that it often promotes the health of those affected if they remain in familiar surroundings and have their family around them. For relatives, however, this situation often means an enormous physical and psychological burden, as many completely subordinate their own family and professional lives to care."

What rights do I have as an employee?

"If a close relative suddenly needs care, you can take up to ten days off work for a short period of time. You can also take time off work for six months to a year or reduce your working hours to part-time for up to two years. The care insurance fund offers free courses to prepare you for home care."