Being in need of care means that a person is no longer able to fully cope with everyday life due to illness, age or disability and is dependent on the care or assistance of others. In Austria, the degree of care required is determined by the care allowance level.
What does it mean to be in need of care?
Someone is considered to be in need of care if they require the help and support of others for a prolonged period of time or permanently. This involves aspects such as personal hygiene, nutrition, mobility and domestic tasks. A person in need of care who lives in Austria is entitled to care allowance.
Who is in need of care?
In Austria, a person is legally considered to be in need of care if they require constant care for at least 65 hours per month and are unable to manage everyday life on their own for at least 6 months due to physical or mental limitations. Someone may be dependent on long-term care in cases of chronic illness such as dementia or heart failure, sudden events such as a stroke or a fall, as well as congenital disabilities. People in need of care are those whose mobility, cognitive or communicative abilities and self-care are so limited that they require care and support.