Your roadmap for the first steps in the event of a sudden need for care in the family

Both people in need of care and their relatives have a legal right to counselling from their care insurance fund. This counselling should take place before applying for care benefits. Have the care needs of the person in need of care officially assessed in order to determine the appropriate care level.

Find out about available benefits such as care benefits in kind, care allowance and respite amounts, which vary depending on the level of care.

Keep all relevant documents such as care assessments, medication plans, contracts with care services, and financial records organised and accessible. This makes it easier to monitor the quality of care and to settle accounts with care insurance companies or other institutions.

Decide whether care at home is possible and whether an outpatient care service is required. Find out what adaptations need to be made to the living space to create a safe care environment.

Consider services such as shopping assistance or domestic help, especially if there are difficulties with eating or daily living. Digital tools such as calendars and apps can also support you with care.

Enquire about short-term and respite care options that can temporarily take over care or provide breaks for you as a family carer.