German Alzheimer Society condemns draft care insurance reform

The Deutsche Alzheimer Gesellschaft (DAlzG) warned that the draft Pflege‑Neuausrichtungs‑Gesetz would worsen conditions for people with early‑stage dementia and their family caregivers. While the proposal includes expanded advisory services and the long‑awaited introduction of budget allocations, the Society criticised the overall cuts.

Chairman Swen Staack praised the broader counselling but questioned where the many required care‑support staff would come from. He said the budget amounts are “far too low” and would lead to a decline in support even after disregarding inflation. Vice‑chair Lilja Helms highlighted the removal of the “relief amount” in care level 1 and the end of preventive care (Verhinderungspflege), arguing that early relief is crucial for maintaining independence in dementia. The draft also proposes a 30 % reduction in pension contributions for non‑working caregivers, which the Society says disproportionately harms women who provide most family care, increasing their poverty risk and future reliance on social benefits. The DAlzG has submitted a formal statement and will present its criticism at the upcoming association hearing.