New care concept for people with dementia
Image: DZNE
The Challenge
Almost two million people in Germany live with dementia. Most of them live at home and are cared for by their relatives, a model that most people with dementia prefer. However, in everyday life, this form of care also has its pitfalls; for example, medication is often not taken as prescribed. Family members are often unaware of the various support services available, such as outpatient care, assistance with household chores, or transportation to important appointments. Caring for someone at home places an additional burden on both the patient and their family members.
Our Solution
To improve home care for people with dementia, the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases (DZNE) has developed the “Dementia Care Management” care concept. Its core element is specially trained nursing staff. They care for and advise patients and their relatives on an outpatient basis at home. For example, they review medication plans, coordinate treatment with general practitioners and specialists, and are aware of the documents required by insurance companies. To enable nursing staff to undertake such complex tasks, DZNE researchers have developed a specialized training program for them, in addition to a novel care concept. In more than 600 hours of theory and hands-on training, participants receive comprehensive medical instruction. Dementia Care Managers can, for example, administer injections, treat complex wounds, and prescribe care aids, which eliminates the often arduous trip to the doctor for people with dementia and reduces the burden on medical practices. In addition, the qualification courses also cover everyday assistance. Thanks to their training, the specialized caregivers can, for example, provide advice on social law issues, initiate necessary renovations in the homes of those affected, or connect relatives with self-help groups.
How we are already benefiting today
Experts at the DZNE have conducted several studies to assess the effectiveness of this model. These studies have shown that dementia care management reduces the number of psychiatric problems in patients and improves their medication management. Dementia care management results in a measurable improvement in their quality of life. On average, they can stay at home seven months longer before moving to a retirement community or nursing home. Relatives, in turn, feel noticeably relieved. The Innovation Committee of the Joint Federal Committee (G-BA), the highest self-governing body in the healthcare system, recommended in October 2025 introducing dementia care management as part of routine care. Statutory health insurance funds would then cover the costs of this specialized care for people with dementia.
