Respite care: what it is and who can use it
What is respite care?
Respite care means that someone takes care of a person in need of care at short notice when the main caregiver is unavailable. This could be due to illness, vacation or other reasons. With this help, the person in need of care continues to be well cared for.
| Type of service | Length of time | Authorized persons |
|---|---|---|
| Preventative care | Up to 6 weeks a year | Care level 2 – 5 |
Who can receive respite care?
In order to use respite care, a few conditions must be met. The person being cared for needs at least care level 2. The main carer must prove that they have looked after the person in need of care for at least six months.
Here are the main things at a glance:
- Care level 2 to 5 of the person to be cared for
- At least six months of care by a primary caregiver
- Evidence of why the caregiver is absent
These and other things are important if you want to apply for respite care from AOK. You can find out more about how to apply for respite care in the section Written application to AOK.
To reduce paperwork and to submit the application correctly, pay attention to the required documents and evidence, as described in the section What documents are required for the application?
How it works: Application for respite care at AOK
Submit your application in writing
If you need a break from caring for your relative, you can apply for respite care from AOK. To do this, you must submit a written application. You can find everything you need directly on the AOK website: simply download the forms, fill them out and send them off.
This should be included in the application:
- Information about the person in need of care :
- Name, address, date of birth
- Care level or care degree
- Information about the caregiver :
- Name, address, contact information
- Details on preventative care :
- Period
- Why the caregiver is absent (e.g. vacation, sick)
- Who takes over (substitute or nursing service)
What documents do you need?
To avoid delays, you should submit all the necessary documents at once. Missing papers will not only annoy you, but will also make your application take longer.
| Required document | Why? |
|---|---|
| Care notice | Proof of care level |
| Confirmation of replacement care | Who will step in? |
| Reason for absence | Proof of the absence of the caregiver (e.g. certificate, travel documents) |
| Cost breakdown | How much does representation cost? |
The AOK will check your application and the documents you have submitted. If everything is OK, the respite care will be approved and you will receive the necessary support. Further information on billing and AOK’s services for respite care can be found on the website or in the service brochure.
Does anyone need a break? Make the request and give yourself some time for yourself.
Billing and services of AOK for respite care
When it comes to respite care provided by AOK, there are clear guidelines on billing and the services offered, which ensure that those in need of care and their relatives receive the best possible support.
How is respite care billed?
Billing for respite care through AOK is simple and straightforward. Those in need of care or their relatives submit the invoices to AOK. AOK checks the documents and reimburses the costs in accordance with legal requirements.
Here is an overview of the billing options:
| Performance | Invoice |
|---|---|
| Preventative care by relatives | Hourly rate, max. €1,612 per year |
| Preventative care by professional providers | Hourly rate, max. €1,612 per year |
| Short-term care | Up to 50% of the short-term care budget (806 €) additional |
You can find out the exact billing details and the respective hourly rate for respite care directly from AOK. It is important to carefully collect all receipts and invoices and submit them promptly to ensure smooth billing. Would you like to know more? Read our article on respite care: what it is and who is eligible .
Services and support from AOK
AOK offers comprehensive support in the context of respite care to make life easier for those in need of care and their families. This includes:
- Financial support : reimbursement of costs for substitute care up to €1,612 per year.
- Additional short-term care : Up to 50% of the unused short-term care allowance (up to €806) can be credited towards the respite care.
- Advice and support : Personal advice from care advisors and support with application and billing.
Further details can be found in the section Tips and advice on applying for respite care.
The AOK ensures that the needs of those in need of care are met and provides support with all organizational tasks. In the category Respite care: What it is and who is eligible you will find more information on the definitions and requirements.
If you have any further questions, insured persons can contact AOK directly to receive individual advice and support. This way, you will always be well informed and make the most of the benefits of respite care.
Tips and tricks for applying for respite care at AOK
Applying for respite care with AOK sometimes seems complicated, but with the right information it works like clockwork.
Important deadlines and steps
The whole procedure has a number of deadlines and steps that must be followed. AOK recommends submitting the application early so that all documents are there on time.
| Step | Deadline | What to do |
|---|---|---|
| Preparation of documents | 1-2 months before | Obtain all important documents such as medical certificates and care certificates. |
| Application | At least 4 weeks in advance | Send the application in writing to your AOK. |
| AOK processing time | 2-3 weeks | Wait for the response from AOK and what to do next. |
For more information on applying to AOK for respite care, take a look at our detailed guide.
Support options and information
There are many sources of help and information that can assist you with the application process. Take advantage of advice from AOK, external portals and other options available to you.
- Advice from AOK: Your AOK offers comprehensive advice. Get advice by phone or in person, so you get all the information first hand.
- Online portals: Many online portals offer detailed information and tips on respite care, which are useful when preparing and submitting applications.
- Nursing services and self-help groups: They often have a lot of experience and can give valuable tips on applying and dealing with the AOK.
You can find more useful tips in our other articles, e.g. on further support options or special instructions and deadlines.
With these tips, the proposal will be child’s play!
