Which nursing service is the largest in Germany?

Family and friends can be considered Germany's largest care service provider.

• Figures: 5.7 million people in need of care (2023); 86% are cared for at home; 64% of informal care is provided outside the home; 64% of primary caregivers are women.
• Everyday life: Care usually close to home; help 1–3+ times/week; networks are an important source of relief.
• Burden: Regular additional costs, reduction in income, especially when caring for a partner at home, and time pressure.
• Policy: Family care allowance as a start; structurally strengthen long-term care insurance (financing and benefits).

DIW Weekly Report 37/2025 “Largest care service in Germany: ...” by Martina Brandt, among others – read it here now!