that wealthier individuals should be required to utilize their private assets when facing incurred long-term care expenses.. Speaking to the “Rheinische Post” (Friday edition), Schmidt stressed the philosophical foundation of Germany’s social insurance systems, including care, stating, “Our social insurance systems, including care, are based on the solidarity principle”. She explained that this principle means everyone pays the contribution they personally can afford to guarantee care for all.
According to Schmidt, the Social Democrats prioritize the typical working people with average incomes, ensuring their health and care are secured. She added that the suggestion that wealthy individuals should first tap into their own assets in case of care needs is certainly a topic worth discussing within this framework.
This perspective contrasts with the stance of Albert Stegemann, a CDU faction deputy. Stegemann told “Bild” that a “inheritance protection program at the cost of the public” is unacceptable. He maintained that anyone possessing wealth must first use their own assets-even their primary residence-before the community is expected to pay.
