Quality healthcare is important, especially as you age. Here's everything you need to know about healthcare for the elderly in Belgium.
The elderly in Belgium
In 2023, around 2.3 million Belgians were over 65. Although this is not a huge proportion of the population, the senior population is only expected to increase in the years to come. And quite naturally, you and your loved ones will need senior healthcare at some point, so it's important to know your options.
In Belgium, health insurance is compulsory. You can also obtain supplementary health insurance policies, which can help cover any health expenses you may incur.
The public healthcare system
Like everyone else, pensioners (meaning those over 65) are covered by the public healthcare system, which is funded by both social security and health insurance contributions. This means they get the following coverage:
- 50 to 75% for seeing a doctor (in a private practice, clinic, or hospital);
- 20% for prescriptions;
- Basic dental care.
Home help services in Belgium
It's best if seniors remain at home for as long as possible since they're in a familiar environment. It's also easier for their family members to check in on them and perform small tasks if needed.
For this scenario, there are home help services available. These home aids can help with things like chores, shopping, cleaning, meal prepping, washing dishes, and more. You can either have them help on a regular basis or arrange for them to come occasionally.
If you opt for home aid help, consider getting a PcardPlus sticker. This allows the aids to park in front of your house if they've also got a sticker for their car. These ParkingPlus stickers make home visits easier for everyone involved.
If you need to adapt your house for any mobility needs, the Belgian government and/or your local commune may give you some financial help. For specifics, speak with your health insurance provider.
Types of residential long-term care in Belgium
There comes a time where you or a loved one may need long-term care. While the emphasis is placed on at-home care, sometimes, stays in residential homes become necessary. In Belgium, there are two types of residential facilities: elderly homes and nursing homes. Both are funded by the federal public health insurance system.
Elderly homes
Elderly homes in Belgium are also known as ROB or MRPA facilities. These homes are intended for the elderly who are still fairly independent, which means they only have minor limitations. The staff members will help them with basic nursing and hygiene tasks.
Nursing homes
Nursing homes are also known as RVT or MRS facilities. If you or a loved one have more serious limitations, but not serious enough to warrant permanent hospital care, then nursing homes are a good middle ground. What's great about nursing homes is each one is attached to a hospital, so if any medical emergencies arise, you'll get quick care.
For both retirement and nursing homes in Belgium, the average monthly budget is €1,446. Please note that this is an indicative price, as it depends on the person's state of health and the need for a greater or lesser degree of medicalization.
Practicing geriatricians in Belgium
Unfortunately, there's a shortage of practicing geriatricians in the nation. In fact, when compared to other G-7 nations, Belgium has the lowest geriatrician workforce.
The good news is, steps have been taken to encourage medical students to specialize in geriatrics at the end of their education. For example, there's more financial compensation for geriatrics, which makes the field more appealing. Also, medical students can only super-specialize in a field at the end of a three-year internal medicine specialization training course.
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