Austria's 24-hour care system nears breaking point amid funding gaps and ageing crisis

Austria’s 24-hour care system faces growing pressure as funding gaps and staff shortages raise concerns. On Caregivers’ Day, marked on May 12, experts warn that political inaction risks deepening a looming crisis. The country’s ageing population and rising life expectancy add urgency to calls for reform. Around 56,500 caregivers in Austria currently support about 35,000 people requiring round-the-clock assistance. Yet funding for 24-hour care remains far lower than for nursing homes. In 2024, just €193 million was allocated to home-based care, compared to €2.5 billion for residential facilities.

The financial strain is worsened by outdated eligibility rules. Since 2007, the income threshold for full subsidies has stayed fixed at €2,500. Harald G. Janisch, chair of Vienna’s Professional Association for Personal Consulting and Care, has called this stagnation 'utterly incomprehensible.' He demands greater political support to prevent a collapse in services. Meanwhile, life expectancy in Austria has climbed steadily. Women now live to an average of 84.3 years, up from 81.1 in 2000. Men’s life expectancy has risen from 75.1 to 79.8 years in the same period. This demographic shift increases demand for long-term care. In response, initiatives like Vienna’s 'Living Well in the Neighborhood' provide free guidance on mental health, nutrition, and fitness. Coordinated by Stephanie Niederhuber, the programme also helps families care for relatives at home. The focus on prevention aims to ease pressure on overstretched services.

The warnings come as Austria observes both Caregivers’ Day and International Nurses Day on May 12. With funding disparities and an ageing population, experts stress that immediate action is needed to sustain care quality. Without changes, the system could struggle to meet growing demand in the years ahead.