Opinion
Caring for relatives is a time-consuming and financially demanding activity. It is a valuable contribution to society that must be honored.
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Caring for people is one of the greatest challenges of our time. Increasing life expectancy means that the need for professional care and nursing staff is constantly growing. However, this development also brings with it considerable financial burdens that can overwhelm many families. Care is not just an issue for older people; parents are also often faced with the task of supporting their children with disabilities, chronic illnesses or special needs. These situations are emotionally stressful and can lead to considerable financial challenges.
A person is in need of care when they can no longer cope with everyday life without outside help. In such cases, a care level can be applied for, which is determined by a care assessment. The care insurance then decides whether and which care level is assigned. The care level is crucial for supporting those in need of care and their families, as it is linked to various benefits such as care allowance, respite care and relief benefits.
There are three main types of care: outpatient, day-care and inpatient. Outpatient care, where caregivers come to the home of the person in need of care or family members take over care, is often the preferred option as it allows people to remain in their familiar surroundings. However, the cost of outpatient care can quickly add up, especially when intensive care needs are involved.
Who bears the care costs?
Financing care is complex and consists of personal contributions, support from nursing care insurance and, if necessary, social assistance. The statutory nursing care insurance in Germany only covers part of the costs. Depending on the level of care required, those affected receive benefits that are often not sufficient to cover the actual costs.
Traditionally, children in many cultures take responsibility for caring for their parents. In modern society, however, this responsibility has changed, particularly due to the increasing employment of both parents and the geographical distance between family members. Nevertheless, long-term care insurance often remains inadequate, and since 1 January 2020, first-degree relatives with an annual gross income of over 100,000 euros are obliged to cover the maintenance costs of a family member in need of care if their own assets are insufficient.
The care needs of children are fundamentally different from the care of older people. While care for older people is often aimed at accompanying them through their final years, the care of children is about supporting their development and enabling them to live independently. The existing system for determining the level of care often does not take the special needs of children into account, which means that the actual care needs are often underestimated.
Financial and psychological stress
Caring relatives are often forced to reduce their working hours or even give up their hours completely in order to take on the care. This not only leads to a loss of income, but also to disadvantages in retirement provision. In addition, many carers have to bear high costs for aids, therapies or special educational offers, which are often not fully covered by health or nursing insurance.
In addition to the financial aspects, the psychological burden on caring relatives is enormous. The balancing act between care, work and everyday organization often leads to exhaustion and stress. There is often a lack of sufficient support, whether from the social environment or from professional help. In some cases, the only option for families to have a relaxing break is a short stay in a children’s hospice.
Solutions
There is a need for greater social recognition and financial support for family caregivers. This includes appropriate remuneration for care work, improved social benefits and an expansion of low-threshold support services. Flexible working hours and better access to psychological care could also provide great relief.
Carers make a valuable contribution to society that goes far beyond mere care. It is time for this work to receive the recognition and support it deserves so that it can be seen as a fulfilling task rather than just a burden.
Source: Stern
