Concerns raised over potential social solitude in eldercare facilities by family minister

Federal Family Minister Franziska Giffey has expressed concern about a potential increase in domestic violence during the upcoming Christmas holidays. Giffey, who has been a vocal advocate for maintaining visits in nursing homes during the COVID-19 pandemic, has also emphasized the importance of preventing people from becoming socially isolated in care homes.

During the first lockdown, numbers of domestic violence reports increased by about 25% compared to 2019, according to Giffey. She assumes that there is a significantly larger "dark field" of unreported domestic violence cases. The helpline "Violence against Women" currently has up to 480 consultations per week on domestic violence, which is less than in the spring, Giffey notes.

Giffey urges citizens to exercise responsibility before the Christmas holidays, carefully considering visits to elderly relatives. She stresses that everything should be done to ensure that visits to care homes can continue, particularly for people with dementia. However, Giffey also warns that visits may not be possible in the event of an acute outbreak in a care facility.

Rapid corona tests are seen as a relief by Giffey, as they allow for visits to care homes without risk. She reiterates her stance against closing care homes to visitors during the pandemic, a position she shared with fellow politician Annalena Baerbock during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Giffey's concerns about domestic violence during the Christmas holidays are not unfounded. She believes that the stress and isolation caused by the pandemic could lead to an increase in incidents of domestic violence. She appeals to the responsibility of citizens before the Christmas holidays, urging careful consideration before visiting elderly relatives.

As the holidays approach, Giffey's message is clear: exercise caution, consider the potential risks, and do everything possible to prevent social isolation in care homes, while also being vigilant about the signs of domestic violence.