Pflegestufe und Pflegegrad? Wir machen es Dir einfach

Confused between care level and care degree? We make it easy for you: Here you can find out everything you need to know to apply for your care allowance in Germany. We explain step by step how you need to proceed.

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Imagine you are standing at the beginning of a path. There used to be clear signs telling you which way to go - these were the care levels. But now the path has changed. The signs have been replaced, and in their place are new signposts: the care levels. It looks different, but don't worry - we'll show you step by step how to find the right path and what the new care levels mean for you and your family. Whether you want to apply for care allowance or simply want to understand what has changed - we'll give you an overview of the changes in Germany.

From the stairs to the ramp: differences between care levels and care grades

You can think of the care levels as a steep staircase. Each step was a clear leap - the higher you got, the bigger your physical Restriction be to reach the next level. This meant that the care levels primarily assessed physical deficits. People who were severely mentally impaired but still appeared physically fit had little room on this staircase. It was as if certain needs were invisible because they were not properly recorded.

Differences between care levels and care grade table

Old care level	Level of care
not previously intended as level of care	1
Care level 0 Care level 1	2
Care level 1 with e. A. Care level 2	3
Care level 2 with e. A. Care level 3	4
Care level 3 with e. A. Care level 3 as a hardship case	5

With the introduction of the care degree system, the picture has changed. This staircase has been replaced by a wide ramp where physical limitations are no longer the only thing that counts. Now the person is considered as a whole - both physically and cognitively. The new system pays attention to the many small steps that those affected take or can no longer take in everyday life. It is no longer just a question of whether you can climb the stairs, for example, but also whether you can remember how to unlock the door or use the stove safely. The care levels take into account not only physical limitations, but also mental and psychological impairments. People who suffer from Dementia or other cognitive disorders have a much better chance of getting the support they really need in the new system.

The change from care levels to care grades therefore brings more justice. The rigid staircase, which only covered part of the problem, has been replaced by a ramp that sees all facets of a person. As a result, every step, whether physical or mental, is now accurately assessed and no one is overlooked.

Advantages of the new care degree system

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Imagine you have a net that only has big holes - only the biggest stones get stuck in it, while the smaller ones just fall through. That was the old care level system. It only covered the most obvious, mainly physical limitations, while many people with invisible but nonetheless burdensome problems fell through the cracks.

With the care grades, this net has been knitted much more finely. Now not only the big stones are caught, but also the small ones - such as cognitive and mental limitations. The change was necessary to create a fairer system that takes into account the full range of care needs.

The main advantages of the care degree system are:

Comprehensive consideration: People with cognitive impairments, such as dementia, receive the support they urgently need.
Fairer Rating: The new system evaluates not only physical, but also mental and emotional needs.
Relief for Families: Relatives know that their loved ones will now be judged more fairly and that they can receive the appropriate help.
Individual Support: Each person can get the specific support that is tailored to their individual needs.

For people in need of care and their families, the new system means that no one will fall through the cracks any more. Whether someone is physically impaired or has difficulty remembering everyday things - the new net catches everyone. This ensures greater fairness and relieves the burden not only on those affected, but also on their families. This gives every family the feeling that the system is finally really taking everyone into account and no one is lost anymore.

Applying for a degree of care: step-by-step guide

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To make sure you choose the right path, you need a detailed map that shows you step by step how to apply for the care degree. Let's draw this map together. The following steps can help you:

First consideration: Think about whether you or your relatives actually need a care degree. Think about the physical and cognitive challenges in everyday life.
Application fill in: The next step is to fill out the application for a care degree. You can request this either online or in writing from your care insurance fund.
Documents collect: Before you send the application, you will need some important documents. These are the "treasures" on your card:
1. Proof of medical treatments and diagnoses
2. Information about help already received (e.g. from therapists or care services)
3. Information about your life situation and the challenges you face in everyday life
Application submit: Submit the application with all collected documents to your care insurance fund. It is important to have everything complete and in order so that the path is clear.
MDK assessment: After submission, an expert from the Medical Service of the Health Insurance (MDK) will come to your home. This is like a treasure hunt, during which he will assess the various aspects of your need for care. The assessor will look at how the person concerned copes with everyday life, taking into account both physical and cognitive abilities.

These steps are like the individual points on your map that guide you safely through the jungle of bureaucracy. At the end of the road, you will not only receive a new assessment, but also the opportunity to receive the support you or your loved ones deserve. The application is the first step on the road to better care - and we'll help you get there!

Nora's Tip: Be well prepared by having all relevant documents ready and noting the challenges of everyday life; openly share your experiences with the MDK assessor and don't hesitate to ask questions to your care insurance fund for support if you are unsure.

Effects on care allowance

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While the care levels usually only took into account the most visible (physical) limitations, the care allowance is now more flexible and customizable. It is not only available to people with physical impairments, but also to those with cognitive difficulties:

Transparent Stages: There are clear, fixed amounts for each care level so that those affected know exactly what they are entitled to. This makes planning easier and provides security.
News Rating system: The care allowance is now adjusted to the respective care level. This means that those affected will receive higher or lower support depending on the severity of their impairments.

Advantages of changing the level of care

If the person's condition changes and he or she requires a higher level of care, he or she will benefit from the following advantages:

Elevation des Care allowance: When changing to a higher care level, he or she receives more money, which makes it possible to make use of the necessary support services, be it through professional help or for necessary aids.
Better Support im Everyday: Increased financial resources can help to better cope with the challenges of everyday life, be it through home help or additional therapies.

Overall, the new system ensures that care allowance is distributed more fairly and that every person in need of care receives the support they actually need to lead a self-determined life. This means that the treasure chest is not only filled, but also opened individually for everyone who needs it.

noracares FAQs

Why did you change from care level to care degree?

The change was made in order to create a fairer and more comprehensive system that takes into account the different facets of the need for care, in particular cognitive impairments. The aim is to better capture and support people with different needs.

Can I continue to receive care allowance?

Yes, you can continue to receive care allowance. However, the amount of care allowance depends on the newly assigned care degree. Depending on the degree of care you need, you will receive the appropriate financial support.

How does a change in care level affect my care allowance?

If your care level changes, your care allowance will also be adjusted. If your care level is higher, you will receive more money, which will enable you to claim additional support. Conversely, a downgrade can lead to a lower care allowance.

How do I find a private carer near me?

Use platforms with regional filters such as Noracares to find caregivers in your area

How long does it take to obtain a care level?

It usually takes a few weeks to process an application for a care degree. After you have submitted the application, the MDK will arrange an appointment for the assessment and then make a decision.

Is it more difficult to obtain a care degree?

No, the new system is more inclusive and takes better account not only of physical, but also mental and psychological limitations. As a result, many people who were previously overlooked now have the opportunity to receive a level of care that meets their needs.

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The transition from care level to care grade is like opening a new door to a world full of opportunities and support for people in need of care and their relatives. In this new world, not only the physical condition is considered, but also the mental and emotional needs, allowing for fairer and more comprehensive care. To ensure that you receive the best possible support, it is crucial to start the application for the care degree early.

Imagine yourself tending a garden: If you start watering and fertilizing on time, everything grows much better and healthier. It's the same with care - the earlier you take care of the level of care and have it checked regularly, the better you can meet your needs and those of your loved ones.

If you have any questions or uncertainties, don't hesitate to contact advice centers or care advisors. These professionals are like experienced gardeners who will help you keep track of your entitlements and find the best solutions for your individual situation.

Ready for the next step? noracares supports you in finding a suitable caregiver and is by your side every step of the way. Register today and let's design the best path for your care needs together!