People who need help – either at home or out and about – can find a lot of support in the Canton of Aargau. For example, there are emergency call systems, home care services (Spitex) and support in the household. Driver and visitation services are also available. There are care homes for those who can no longer live at home. Many of these services cost money. Sometimes, health insurers (Krankenkasse) or the communal authority can provide support.
An emergency call system allows you to get help quickly if something happens. You carry a button on your person, for example as a wrist strap or necklace. Pressing the button connects you with an emergency call centre. The centre then arranges immediate help. A range of providers exist. You can choose for yourself and pay the relevant costs. The Red Cross in Aargau also offers an emergency call system.
When someone is ill or needs care, Spitex can help. Specialists work at Spitex who visit patients' homes. They provide care services or assistance in the household. This is particularly helpful for older people. Some of the costs are covered by basic health insurance. Public Spitex services (such as the Spitex Association of Aargau) and many private providers are available.
There are various organisations in the Canton of Aargau that help people at home. They come for as long as required. Some organisations also offer help at night. This way, relatives who normally provide care can rest. During an organisation's first visit, they find out what level of support is needed. Usually the person receiving the care pays the costs. In some cases, disability insurance (Invalidenversicherung, IV), supplementary insurance, assistance contributions or supplementary benefits contribute to the costs. You can contact your family doctor for more information.
People can have difficulties with everyday tasks in old age or in the event of health problems. In many communes, voluntary or paid helpers are available. They deliver lunch, provide a lift to the doctor or simply visit for a chat or a game. These services usually cost something. Some health insurers cover a portion of the costs under supplementary insurance policies. Further information can be obtained from the local communal authority or your insurance provider.
A care home is an option for people who can no longer live at home. A care home provides care services, medication and accommodation. These services cost money. The health insurer and responsible communal authority pay some of the costs of care. You have to pay the rest yourself, such as for the room or additional care. The care home can provide further information.
If a person can't afford these costs, it's possible to apply for supplementary benefits or social assistance. The social insurance office in the local commune can help. There are specific conditions on who is eligible to receive this assistance.
