CDU Seniors' Union Calls for Comprehensive Reforms for Family Caregivers in Germany

In light of the ongoing care crisis in Germany, the CDU Seniors' Union has made a strong appeal for significant reforms aimed at supporting family caregivers. These caregivers, who often tend to sick relatives at home, are increasingly faced with challenges that hinder their ability to work full-time.

The organization has urged its party to prioritize the enhancement of conditions for family caregivers during the ongoing coalition negotiations with the SPD. The focus is on ensuring that both current and future financial security for these caregivers is adequately addressed.

According to the CDU Seniors' Union's national chairman, Helge Benda, family caregivers are engaged in undervalued work that underpins the healthcare system. He emphasized the need for a tangible voice and guaranteed financial stability for this demographic, stating that caregivers should not be penalized with reduced pensions due to their caregiving responsibilities.

The Seniors' Union advocates for a range of measures including tax relief for caregivers and an increase in the monthly care allowance, which currently caps at 947 euros. Benda pointed out that this amount is insufficient to cover the actual costs incurred by caregivers.

Data from the German Institute for Economic Research (DIW) reveals that one in five family caregivers faces the threat of old-age poverty. This precarious situation arises from the fact that many caregivers cannot maintain full-time employment while providing care, leading to lower contributions to their retirement funds.

Women disproportionately bear the burden of caregiving, handling approximately 70% of such responsibilities. This statistic highlights the urgent need for reforms that directly address the challenges faced by caregivers, especially women.

Among the additional requests from the CDU Seniors' Union for the upcoming coalition program are the provision of free caregiving aids, flexible work schedules for caregivers, and a reduction in bureaucratic obstacles related to the application for care levels. Benda insists that simplifying the application process for care benefits is crucial for alleviating the burdens on caregivers.