Elderly Care in Israel: Nursing Homes vs. Home Care
Geriatric Care in Israel: Ensuring Dignity in Old Age
Israel offers a robust support system for the elderly, but navigating it requires understanding the roles of Bituach Leumi (National Insurance) and the Ministry of Health. Whether you choose home care or a residential facility, knowledge of your rights and available subsidies is vital.
Option 1: Home Care (The Nursing Law - Siudi)
The "Nursing Benefit" (Gimlat Siud) is designed to help elderly residents continue living in their own homes for as long as possible.
Benefit Levels:
Based on an ADL (Activities of Daily Living) test, Bituach Leumi assigns one of six levels of care:
- Level 1: Basic assistance (approx. 5.5 hours/week).
- Level 6: Intensive care for those who are fully dependent (approx. 30 hours/week).
Services Provided:
- Home Caregiver (Metapelet): Assistance with bathing, dressing, and light housework.
- Day Centers: Social activities, meals, and medical supervision during the day.
- Emergency Call Button: 24/7 connection to a medical center.
- Supplies: Diapers and other hygiene products delivered to the home.
Option 2: Residential Facilities (Beit Avot)
When home care is no longer sufficient, several types of residential care are available: 1. Protected Housing (Diyur Mugan): For independent seniors. These are private apartment complexes with social services and medical security. 2. Assisted Living (Tshushim): For those needing moderate daily help. 3. Nursing Wards (Siudi): For individuals requiring 24/7 medical and nursing supervision. 4. Memory Care (Tshushei Nefesh): Dedicated units for patients with dementia or Alzheimer’s.
The Ministry of Health "Kod" (Subsidy)
Private nursing care can cost 15,000–22,000 NIS monthly. The Ministry of Health (Misrad Habriut) provides a subsidy known as the "Kod" to cover these costs for eligible citizens.
How the "Kod" Works:
- Financial Assessment: The ministry evaluates the income and assets of the elderly person, their spouse, and their adult children.
- Family Participation: Each family member is assigned a monthly payment based on their financial ability. The state pays the remainder of the facility fee.
Foreign Caregivers (Oved Zar)
Hiring a live-in foreign caregiver is a popular option in Israel.
- Permit: Requires a high dependency score from Bituach Leumi.
- Financing: You can use the money from your Nursing Benefit level to offset the caregiver’s salary.
- Cost: Total monthly costs (salary, social benefits, insurance) typically range from 7,500 to 9,500 NIS.
Geriatric Rehabilitation
After a fall or surgery, elderly patients are entitled to rehabilitation in specialized geriatric centers. The goal is to return the patient to their previous level of function. This is covered by the HMO for a limited period (usually up to 3 months).
Expert Tip from RofeRank
Consult with a geriatric case manager (Manhal Mikreh) if the situation is complex. They can help coordinate between the HMO, Bituach Leumi, and the Ministry of Health to ensure no benefits are missed.
Caring for our elders is a reflection of our society's values. Israel provides the tools; make sure you use them to provide the best possible care for your loved ones.