Who is insured?

In Germany some 2 million people rely on support or care from others because physical, mental or psychological illness renders them unable to independently master the routine tasks of daily life. The long-term care insurance is there to provide them with much-needed assistance.

Who is in need of long-term care?

Insured persons considered in need of care are those who, due to a physical, mental or psychological illness or disability, will require substantial assistance carrying out normal day-to-day activities for at least six months. Care benefits are provided to insured persons who

  • are in need of care,
  • can demonstrate having been insured for a specified qualifying period,
  • have applied for benefits.

Who is insured?

Long-term care insurance is compulsory. The principle applies of: "long-term care insurance follows health insurance". This means that whoever is covered by statutory health insurance with

  • one of the local health insurance funds (AOK),
  • an approved alternative health insurance fund (Ersatzkasse),
  • one of the company health insurance funds (Betriebskrankenkasse),
  • one of the guild health insurance funds (Innungskrankenkasse),
  • one of the agricultural health insurance funds (Landwirtschaftliche Krankenkasse) or
  • the Federal Insurance Fund for Miners (Bundesknappschaft)

also belongs to that funds long-term care insurance scheme. This also applies to family members of the insured, who are co-insured. People with private health insurance must also obtain private long-term care insurance.