Care homes (APH) are facilities that provide care and support for people who, due to age, illness, or disability, are unable to live independently. They offer round-the-clock care, accommodation, meals, and various forms of therapy and rehabilitation. Let’s take a closer look at the costs of staying in a care home, the admission process, and the waiting time for a place in an APH.
Costs of Staying in a Care Home
The costs of staying in a care home can vary significantly depending on the location, the standard of the facility, and the types of services offered. Generally, these costs include:
1. Accommodation and Meals: Accommodation in a single or shared room, as well as full board (three meals a day plus snacks).
2. Medical and Nursing Care: Daily nursing care, access to specialist doctors, rehabilitation.
3. Therapeutic and Recreational Activities: Various activities aimed at physical and mental stimulation.
4. Additional Services: Hairdresser, beautician, laundry, etc.
In Germany, the cost of staying in a care home ranges between about 3000 and 6000 euros per month. These costs are covered from various sources:
Own funds of the senior: From their own savings or income (e.g., pension).
Family support: Part of the costs can be covered by the senior’s family.
Social assistance: If the senior or their family cannot fully cover the costs, it is possible to obtain financial support from social assistance.
How to Get Admitted to a Care Home
The admission process to a care home involves several steps:
- 1. Application: The application for admission to a care home can be submitted to the social welfare office responsible for the senior’s place of residence. The application can be submitted by the senior themselves, their family, or their legal guardian.
- 2. Situation Assessment: A social worker conducts an environmental interview to assess the senior’s living, health, and financial situation.
- 3. Medical Documentation: It is necessary to provide medical documentation confirming the senior’s health condition and the need for round-the-clock care.
- 4. Admission Decision: Based on the collected documents and the interview, the social welfare office makes a decision about the admission to a care home. In the case of a positive decision, the senior is placed on a waiting list.
Waiting Time for a Place in a Care Home
The waiting time for a place in a care home can vary significantly depending on the region and the availability of places. In some cities, it can take a few months, while in others, it can take several years. The waiting time depends on several factors:
- Occupancy of the facility: Popular facilities with high standards may have long waiting lists.
- Health condition of the senior: Seniors requiring urgent care may be admitted more quickly.
- Type of facility: Specialized care homes (e.g., for people with Alzheimer’s) may have longer waiting lists.
How to Speed Up the Admission Process
To speed up the admission process to a care home, the following steps should be taken:
- Early application: The earlier the application is submitted, the sooner one will be placed on the waiting list.
- Complete documentation: Ensure that all required documents are complete and up-to-date.
- Contact multiple facilities: Applying to several care homes increases the chances of a faster admission.
- Monitor the situation: Regular contact with the social welfare office and care homes can help obtain information about available places more quickly.
Summary
Care homes are an important part of the support system for elderly people who need round-the-clock care. The costs of staying in a care home vary and can be covered from various sources. The admission process requires submitting an application, assessing the senior’s situation, and providing medical documentation. The waiting time for a place can vary, but proper preparation and monitoring can speed up the admission process. It is important for seniors and their families to be aware of their rights and options to ensure the best care and support.
