Care in MV: Baby boomers tighten personnel shortage-what are the solutions?

Care in MV: Baby boomers tighten personnel shortage-what are the solutions?

Demographic change in care: Effects and solutions for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

In Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, the care system is faced with a serious challenge, which is reinforced by dealing with demographic change, in particular the departure of the baby boomer generation. A current report of DAK health illustrates the situation of those in need of care and nurses in the region.

The increase in those in need of care: A growing concern

Demographic change means that the number of people in need of care continuously increases. Over the next 25 years, it will be estimated that around 2.3 million people will be more dependent on nursing support in Germany than today. This raises the urgent question of how Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania will be able to cover these growing needs.

The staff shortage in the care sector: alarming statistics

• In 2024, the labor market reserve in the care sector will drop to alarming 2.6 percent.
• by 2030 this reserve could only decrease to only 0.7 percent, while 21.5 percent of the current nursing staff will retire.

Current forecasts indicate that the number of professional nurses will drop dramatically by 2030. This is not only a challenge for the care of those in need of care, but also for the financial security of people who need care.

Financial worries of the population: a serious concern

The financing gaps in the care system are already noticeable. A survey has shown that 48 percent of the respondents in Brandenburg and Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania expressed concerns about their financial security in the event of a need for care. These concerns are justified, especially since the increasing costs are expected to lead to further increases in contributions in long -term care insurance.

Community models as a possible solution

The challenges associated with demographic change require new care approaches. The DAK expert Sabine Hansen points out that the baby boomer generation is both a challenge and a chance. It is time to develop innovative supply models that combine professional care with informal concern and civic engagement.

For a successful implementation of these models, increased willingness to the population is required. According to a survey, 53 percent of over 40-year-olds in the region are willing to help friends and neighbors in everyday life with the need for care. Such initiatives could make a significant contribution to stabilizing the care situation.

Conclusion: A question of the future for Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania

The explanations in DAK-Care Exercise underline the need for a fundamental change in the care system of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania. The continued demographic change, the decreasing personnel capacities and the growing concerns of the population require urgent action. A combination of new care approaches, support for caring relatives and an appropriate financial regulation are crucial to successfully manage the challenges and ensure adequate care for everyone.

The DAK health is ready as the third largest health insurance in Germany to actively participate in this discussion and to inform their insured about important topics relating to care.