This type of hospitality has a long tradition in the Ludwigsburg district: as early as 1992 to 1998, people in need of care were able to stay with families for a limited period of time when their carers took time out. For those in need of care, everyday life in a host family is an alternative to care in an inpatient facility and gives them a sense of security and participation. Host families experience great appreciation and gratitude for the care they provide. Especially at the present time, it is clear how important it is to take responsibility for one another - and also how much can be achieved with commitment, creativity and good networking.
Since October 2019, the district of Ludwigsburg has been focusing on the many possibilities of home care with the "PflegeFrei" (CareFree) model project, which enables family caregivers to take a vacation, meet up with family, take time for their own health or enjoy a few days off at home.
The pilot project is financially supported by the Baden-Württemberg Ministry of Social Affairs and Integration. Scientific support and evaluation is provided by the Protestant University of Applied Sciences Ludwigsburg (Prof. Dr. Annette Franke).
We are now looking for civic-minded people who are interested in taking in a person in need of care as a guest in their own home or taking over the care in the home of the person in need of care during the absence of the caring relative. The duration of the care can be individually tailored from one day to six weeks. The main focus of this voluntary work is the joy of interacting with people, and experience in care from the private or professional sector is desirable.
The "PflegeFrei" advice center is responsible for bringing host families and those in need of care together. Mutual sympathy between host family and guest is crucial for this offer, but it is also important that the host family's offer and the needs of the person in need of care match. It is also possible to involve additional cooperation partners.
The development of the host family network begins immediately. In the autumn, a four-day introductory seminar for host families will be held at the advice center, which will provide lots of tips on how to spend time together. The host families also have the opportunity to get to know each other.
As soon as the general conditions beyond the coronavirus pandemic allow it again, accommodation in the host families will then be implemented.
Offering support, but also accepting encouragement and help, brings people together, brings joy and gives them strength. This will also be the focus of the host families - a great experience for all those who embark on this exciting journey and get involved.
Anyone interested can find out more about the framework conditions for this voluntary work here:
PflegeFrei advice center,
Ms. Kostron, Ms. Lang (assistance)
Ludwigsburg District Office
Competence Center for Seniors,
Tel. 07141 144-69971
