Advocates are calling for increased investment in home-based care to support the wishes of those requiring assistance and alleviate the burdens placed on families. Verena Bentele, president of the social association VdK, emphasized the importance of enabling individuals to maintain autonomy and remain in familiar surroundings. In an interview with Deutschlandfunk, she argued strongly for substantial investment in this particular area of care.
Currently, approximately 90 percent of individuals requiring care prefer to receive it within their own homes. However, these arrangements often face constraints due to cost-saving measures, which can manifest in limitations such as reduced heating and family members decreasing or foregoing employment to provide care. The utilization of formal assistance for in-home care is significantly lower compared to placements within care facilities.
Bentele highlighted the significant health and psychological risks faced by family members undertaking the role of caregiver. To address these challenges and mitigate the risk of poverty within caregiving households, she is advocating for the introduction of a dedicated caregiver wage. This proposal aims to provide financial stability and recognition for the vital role family members play in providing essential care.
