The Assessment Determines the Care Level
When you want to apply for a care level, the application to the care insurance fund is only the first step. The decisive factor is the assessment by the Medical Service (MD). The assessor visits the care recipient at home and evaluates the degree of independence across six areas of life. Good preparation can make the difference between care level 1 and 3.
The Six Assessment Areas
The assessor examines these modules:
- Mobility: Can the person move independently, get up, climb stairs?
- Cognitive and communicative abilities: Orientation, decision-making, communication
- Behavioral and psychological issues: Restlessness, aggression, anxiety, nighttime problems
- Self-care: Personal hygiene, dressing, eating, drinking, using the toilet
- Disease-related requirements: Medication administration, bandage changes, doctor visits
- Organizing daily life: Structuring the day, social contacts, rest periods
Keeping a Care Diary
At least two weeks before the assessment, you should keep a detailed care diary. Note for each day: What help was needed? How long did the support take? Were there any notable events? The care diary is your most important tool when applying for a care level and wanting to receive an appropriate classification.
Tips for the Day of the Assessment
- Do not show "the best day": Present the situation as it really is. Many people make an extra effort during the assessor visit – this leads to a classification that is too low.
- Have family members present: A trusted person should be at the appointment and describe the situation from the caregiving perspective.
- Have documents ready: Keep doctor reports, medication plan, care diary, and assistive device records at hand.
- Do not gloss over anything: Openly describe difficult situations such as nighttime restlessness, incontinence, or fall risk.
After the Assessment: Filing an Objection
If the assigned care level is too low, you can file an objection within one month. It is worth it: about one in three objections is successful. Get support from a care counseling center or social welfare organization.
Documentation Helps When Applying for a Care Level
The better your documentation, the easier it is for the assessor to evaluate the actual care needs. With mendracare, you can maintain the daily log and medication documentation seamlessly and present it at the assessment appointment. This reduces stress and ensures a fair classification.
