Thursday, November 6, 2025

“We are at a tipping point in care” – DAK-Gesundheit report reveals alarming public sentiment on the future of long-term care

Thirty years after the establishment of Germany’s social long-term care insurance, trust in the national care system has significantly eroded. According to the latest DAK-Gesundheit Care Report, based on a survey by the Allensbach Institute for Public Opinion Research, almost two-thirds of the population currently rate the quality of care as “poor” or “very poor.”

Looking ahead, 46 percent expect the situation to worsen over the next decade.

Financing as the key challenge

The financing of the care insurance system is seen as the biggest issue: 72 percent of respondents believe funding is not secured. Moreover, 70 percent cite the high personal costs of residential care as the top problem, while 68 percent name staff shortages and a lack of qualified caregivers.

Public expectations are clear

Nearly 90 percent (specifically 87 percent) of respondents say that care must be affordable for everyone. 79 percent expect long-term financial stability, 73 percent want caps on nursing home fees, and 71 percent call for a simplification of the benefits system.
A large majority (83 percent) considers it unfair that, despite years of contributions, they are not adequately protected when care is needed. About three-quarters fear being financially overburdened by care costs.

Central role of caregivers and care structures

The study highlights that care is a deeply personal issue in Germany: 16.6 million people provide care to relatives, neighbors, or friends. According to study director Prof. Thomas Klie, “Professional care support is a key reform pillar.” In fact, 88 percent of respondents welcome the creation of more local care support centers offering counseling and professional guidance.

A call for political action

DAK-Gesundheit CEO Andreas Storm warns: “We are at a tipping point in care: public trust in the system is extremely low and is at risk of collapsing.” He urges the federal and state “Future Pact for Care” commission to act decisively: It must now be the top priority to implement measures that establish sustainable financing and a resilient care infrastructure.

Conclusion

Germany’s care system is at a critical crossroads – marked by a major loss of trust, financial strain, and strong public demand for reform. The coming months will determine whether politics and society can work together to secure the future of long-term care.