The desire to care for loved ones in their familiar surroundings is human and understandable. However, as soon as you consider the topic of finding a caregiver , many questions arise: How does the process work? Who handles contracts, insurance, and travel arrangements? And how do you distinguish reputable providers from dubious ones? A high-quality placement always begins with a detailed analysis of individual needs. This includes assessing health status, mobility, sleep patterns, and personal habits. This information forms the foundation for a tailored care solution – because only when the requirements are clear can the right caregiver be found.
In the next step, the agency selects suitable profiles. Experience, language skills, resilience, and social skills play a key role here. A trustworthy broker operates transparently – this means that families not only receive a CV but can also discuss possible alternatives and adaptations openly. The legal framework is equally important: The widespread posting of caregivers from EU countries in Germany ( EU Posting Model ) allows the legal deployment of caregivers, provided social security, working hours, and minimum wage are observed. Don’t be fooled by the term “24-hour care” – this means continuous care, not uninterrupted working hours. Breaks, rest periods, and days off are always part of the process.
Once the right caregiver has been found, the placement agency organizes travel, contracts, and ongoing care. Many providers also offer a local contact person who can intervene in case of questions or misunderstandings. Such a service saves families a lot of organizational effort and ensures stability in their daily lives.
Correctly assess care costs – how to use subsidies and tax relief
The costs of hiring a caregiver depend heavily on individual needs – factors such as the level of care required, language skills, and scope of duties play a crucial role. On average, the total monthly costs range between €2,000 and €3,000. However, a significant portion can be covered by government assistance. People in need of care with a recognized level of care receive a monthly care allowance , which ranges between approximately €347 and €990 depending on the classification. In addition, there are subsidies from respite care or short-term care, which can be used flexibly to finance parts of the care.
In addition, German tax law offers interesting tax relief options. Anyone who legally employs a caregiver through a care agency can claim the costs as household-related services – up to 20% of the expenses, up to a maximum of €4,000 per year, are tax-deductible. This regulation (Section 35a of the Income Tax Act) supports families who take on responsibility and provide care at home.
However, caution is advised with seemingly cheap offers. Often, these conceal additional fees or unclear contract terms. Reputable agents will disclose all costs and explain what services are included in the price – travel, insurance, exchange services, or replacement in case of illness should be clearly defined. Transparent billing builds trust and protects against unpleasant surprises.
Transparency and responsibility – what makes a good care placement
The quality of care depends on the reliability of the agency. A responsible agency works only with vetted partner companies and regularly reviews the qualifications, language skills, and working conditions of the caregivers placed. Support during the assignment is equally important – regular feedback, telephone availability, and the ability to quickly communicate in an emergency demonstrate that the agency takes responsibility.
A good example of such an approach is VILENA – an experienced provider of caregiver placement services that specializes in the legal organization of 24-hour care in Germany. The company works exclusively with partners from the EU whose employees are socially insured and duly posted. Thanks to clear pricing structures, tested quality standards, and personal consultations, VILENA offers families a legally secure and fair solution for home care. Interested parties can easily submit a request via the website vilena.de and receive suitable suggestions for qualified caregivers within a short time.
Reliability is also evident in communication: no hidden fees, no unclear contracts, no pressure. A professional caregiver placement service means that both the family and the caregiver benefit equally – with clear rules, respect, and mutual appreciation. Because in the end, it’s not just about organizational processes, but about trust, humanity.