Abstract
Background: The purpose of this study was to present an overview of possible causes for care dependency in old age, taking into consideration the current legal definition of care dependency in Germany.
Method: Literature search based on keywords.
Results: Chronic diseases, multimorbidity, impairments in motor skills and mobility, cognitive impairment, dementia and age seem to be important causes for care dependency in this context, as these conditions may result in loss of independence concerning activities of daily living.
Conclusion: The definition of long-term care dependency affects the identification of underlying causes, the determination who is in need of care, and influences conclusions concerning care requirements.
Rösslein, Rosa