Michaela Engelmeier, the Chairwoman of the Sozialverband Deutschland (SoVD), has labeled the increasing costs of nursing home stays as an “absolute alarm bell.” Speaking to the newspapers of Funke-Mediengruppe, she stated that this dramatic trend is moving forward relentlessly. She asserted that individuals who have worked and been insured throughout their lives should not be forced to rely on social welfare in their final years, calling it both scandalous and undignified.
This strong reaction followed new figures released by the Association of Alternative Health Insurers (VDEK). According to the VDEK, the cost for residing in a nursing home has risen significantly again within the span of one year. Since July 1st, the average monthly private contribution has reached €2,891, an increase of €296, or approximately eleven percent, compared to the previous year.
Meanwhile, Federal Health Minister Nina Warken (CDU) is currently working on a comprehensive care reform, which is slated for approval before the cabinet recess in August. The reform plans include measures aimed at reducing certain “relief surcharges” that the care insurance fund provides, particularly those that increase with the length of stay. Furthermore, the proposals anticipate savings for caregivers and relatives, including changes to pension entitlements.
However, the SoVD chief stressed that the attention must also be paid to the high burdens placed on home care, noting that 85 percent of individuals requiring care are supported by family members and relatives. She warned that making cuts to or eliminating home care would be disastrous. She argued that investment must now be made in care, stating that care is a fundamental life risk and must not become a private economic risk. Therefore, Engelmeier is advocating for a “future-proof care reform” that solidarily secures the entire care risk: a complete “Care Citizen Full Insurance” system that incorporates all forms of employment, including civil servants and the self-employed.
