Caren Miosga documentary highlights German caregiving crisis

In her new ARD documentary, “Und wer fragt nach mir?”, journalist Caren Miosga examines the immense pressure placed on family caregivers in Germany. The film features individuals like Angelina Kusterer and Jürgen Mehl, who describe reaching the limits of physical and mental exhaustion while caring for elderly relatives.

Miosga also shares her personal experience, noting that she had previously avoided the topic of elder care until her 85-year-old parents required significant support. She describes her father’s struggle to care for her mother following her heart attack and spinal issues, highlighting the tension between the need for practical living arrangements and the emotional attachment to a family home.

The documentary underscores a systemic issue in Germany, where the increasing number of people in need of care relies heavily on family members due to insufficient capacity in nursing homes and professional services.