
Finding the right nursing home – here's how!
The first question you should ask yourself is: In which region does the person requiring care want to live in the future? Would they prefer a facility in their current living environment or would they like to move closer to relatives who may live in a completely different location? Do they prefer an urban environment or a residential area in the countryside?
Databases make it easier to find a home
With the help of various databases on the Internet (e.g., Heimverzeichnis.de), you can then begin your search in the selected region. Many of these directories make the search easier with filters for prices or care specializations. Of course, you should keep your financial options in mind and also consider what kind of care and support is important for your loved one. If you need help at short notice, temporary short-term care is recommended. Many nursing homes offer places for this purpose.
Once you have made a preliminary selection, you will find further helpful information on the nursing homes' websites. Or you can request brochures to be sent to you. Read between the lines: Is the institution's website friendly and informative or rather impersonal and lacking in transparency? Most care facilities also advertise with care ratings awarded by the Medical Service of the Health Insurance Funds (MDK). However, these have only been of limited help so far, as the MDK only checked the care documentation, not the practical care provided on a daily basis.
A new assessment system improves home ratings
The results were consistently good to very good, which meant that they were not very meaningful. A new assessment system, which has been in use since fall 2019, aims to improve this. Among other things, nine residents are personally interviewed about their life in the facility in a random sample. "In addition, the expert discussion with the responsible nursing staff is an essential part of the new assessment procedure," says Dr. Monika Kücking, head of the health department at the GKV-Spitzenverband.
In addition, there is a new system for measuring quality and presenting the results. This enables those seeking advice to compare different facilities online according to criteria that are important to them. Another good indicator of quality in care is the "green tick." Ideally, your research will result in a shortlist of about three facilities.
Are you considering what to do with your property in the event that you require care? Contact us! We will be happy to advise you.
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Legal notice: This article does not constitute tax or legal advice in individual cases. Please consult a lawyer and/or tax advisor to clarify the facts of your specific case.
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