Basiszorg

Basiszorg is a term used in the Dutch social care system to describe the basic level of daily life support available to residents with care needs. It is intended to enable people to live as independently as possible, often at home, and is tied to national and municipal care policies. The concept is used within frameworks such as the Social Support Act (Wmo) and is distinct from more intensive or specialized forms of care.

Typical components of basiszorg include assistance with activities of daily living, such as personal care, dressing, bathing, meal preparation, housekeeping, and laundry. It may also cover support to manage medications, basic nursing tasks, help with safety at home, minor home adaptations, and guidance or coordination of care. In addition, basiszorg often includes respite or support for informal caregivers, who provide unpaid care.

Access to basiszorg is arranged after a care needs assessment carried out by the municipality. Based on the assessment and available resources, the municipality determines whether basiszorg is provided, and organizes service through contracted providers or municipal staff. The intensity and duration of support are tailored to the individual’s needs and can change over time.

Financing primarily comes from municipal budgets under the Wmo, with possible personal contributions based on income and local policies. In some cases, certain elements may involve other funding streams through health insurance if they are medically required.

Basiszorg forms the foundational layer of Dutch care, sitting beside informal care (mantelzorg) and more extensive or specialized care, and is subject to regional variation and policy reforms aimed at standardization and quality improvement.