Michel Scheuer is the coordinator of a branch of “ Verbandskëscht ” in Alzingen – Photo: Verbandskëscht
After surgery, a fall, or when their strength begins to decline, patients often need support at home. What kinds of assistance are available, and how can they maintain their independence? An interview with Michel Scheuer, director of a “ Verbandskëscht ” care center in Alzingen, on listening to patients and providing them with personalized support.
1. Mr. Scheuer, you lead a care team at Verbandskëscht. What is particularly important to you in your relationship with the people you care for?
Above all, we want people to feel supported and understood. That is why we prioritize direct contact, take the time to listen, and maintain an open dialogue with patients and their loved ones. Our nursing staff, psychologists, physical therapists, and occupational therapists work closely together and consult with the attending physician. This effective coordination allows those in our care to live at home for as long as possible, in the environment where they feel most comfortable.
2. Can you give us a specific example of how your team takes a patient’s wishes and habits into account?
We support people of all ages: children, teenagers, parents, and the elderly. What brings joy and what matters to each person varies greatly. For example, we took a 10-year-old child on a tour of a fire station. It was a wonderful experience, where the illness took a back seat to curiosity, joy, and the simple pleasure of being a child.
For others, what matters most is simply sharing a quiet cup of coffee and having someone to talk to—someone who listens. When independence begins to wane and loneliness sets in on a daily basis, these shared moments mean the world.
3. After a hospital stay, people are often happy to return home. What should families plan for before discharge from the hospital?
Ideally, families should contact us in advance. A simple phone call is all it takes: one of our liaison nurses will visit the patient in the hospital and discuss their home care needs with the healthcare team or social services.
As the coordinator, I then plan the next steps with the patient and their loved ones. This also allows us to arrange the necessary accommodations in advance—such as a specially adapted bed, for example. This way, everyone can prepare for the return home and approach it with peace of mind.
4. Many older adults want to continue managing their daily lives at home as they see fit. How does your team help them while promoting their independence?
We work with each person to assess what they can do on their own and the situations in which they need support. When it comes to getting dressed or bathing, we assist them and encourage them to draw on their own abilities, while being careful to respect their limits. Our care teams, physical therapists, and occupational therapists communicate regularly and involve both the person and their loved ones in the process. Our support aims to provide a sense of security and to preserve independence in the activities that a person can continue to perform on their own.
5. As people age, an unsteady gait or a loss of appetite can easily go unnoticed. What do caregivers look out for, and how do they support their patients?
We pay close attention to changes, even when they seem minor. Does the person have a reduced appetite? Do they seem less steady on their feet when walking? Our caregivers record their observations every day in our electronic health record system, “UpCare.” This ensures that every member of the team caring for the patient knows what to look out for.
This information-sharing helps us quickly identify changes. We take every change seriously, address it with care, and tailor our support to the needs of the moment.
6. Accepting help isn't always easy. What do you say to people and their loved ones who are still hesitant to seek home care services?
Accepting help requires trust. That’s why we first take the time to listen and get to know each other during a home visit. Together, we discuss what might be best for the patient. Patients are involved in the decision-making process: after all, it’s their home and their daily life.
FAQ: Home Care and Assistance—What You Need to Know
How do I contact Verbandskëscht for in-home care?
All it takes is a simple call to 28 30. We’ll take the time to listen to your request, assess your needs, and work with you to determine how we can assist you.
Are you available at night, on weekends, and on holidays?
Yes, we are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including at night, on weekends, and on holidays.
Will I have a contact person to coordinate my support?
Yes, a dedicated contact person coordinates your care. They are there to listen to you and answer questions from your loved ones.
How long has “ Verbandskëscht ” been providing home care services?
Since 2005, we have been providing home care and assistance to people in Luxembourg. With over 20 years of experience, we help you continue to live in your familiar surroundings.
What languages do your teams speak?
82% of our caregivers speak Luxembourgish. Our teams can also communicate with you in French, German, English, and Portuguese.
Can you help me with the administrative procedures and organizing the equipment?
Yes, we’ll assist you with your applications to the National Health Fund (CNS) or the long-term care insurance program. We’ll also help you arrange for the necessary equipment, such as a hospital bed or a walking aid.
