After a hospital stay, people often need further support and cannot return home immediately. Many nursing homes offer temporary stays to bridge the gap until people can return home or be cared for in another care facility. These short-term stays are called transitional care or bridging care.
The aim is to support people in their recovery after a hospital stay and to facilitate the transition from inpatient treatment back to their home environment or to a suitable care facility. This form of care combines medical and nursing services to help people regain their fitness so that they can manage everyday life on their own or with little help.
Transitional care in a facility usually lasts a maximum of 28 days. Under certain conditions and depending on the person's state of help, such a stay can also last up to 6 weeks.
The costs of transitional care must be paid in part by the person in need of care, with the remainder covered by subsidies and funding from the federal provinces. The amount of the personal contribution is dependent on the level of income and care allowance.
If you are temporarily unable to live at home, or if your caregivers need a break or are ill, many nursing homes offer temporary admission. This is referred to as:
Whether you are eligible for transitional care depends on the regulations in your federal province.
If, during your hospital, it becomes obvious that you will not be able to receive care at home after your discharge and you need support, please contact the specialist staff on site. They will then provide you with all the information you need for your transitional care.
Last update: October 1, 2025